Shrewd: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is very good at making judgments about situations or people, often in a way that is advantageous for them.

• She made a shrewd business investment that doubled her wealth.
• His shrewd observations led the company out of the crisis.

Describes someone who is very perceptive and can understand and judge situations or behaviors quickly and accurately.

• The lawyer gave an astute analysis of the legal dilemma.
• Her astute mind quickly figured out the puzzle.

Refers to someone who is quick to understand or learn. It can be used for someone showing inventiveness or originality.

• He came up with a clever solution to the problem.
• Her clever remarks always light up the conversation.

Describes someone with a quick and intelligent mind. It can also imply being witty or able to notice and respond quickly.

• He's a sharp kid, always at the top of his class.
• Her sharp comments left everyone in stitches.

Refers to someone who has good judgment and experience, often implying thoughtfulness and deep understanding.

• The elder's wise advice helped the community during tough times.
• It's a wise choice to save money for the future.

Shrewd is often used to describe someone who is sharp-witted and makes good judgments, especially in practical matters like business or politics.

• She made a shrewd investment that doubled her money.
• His shrewd negotiation skills saved the company millions.

Cunning often implies cleverness and deceit, similar to 'crafty', and can be used to describe someone who uses their intelligence for misleading or manipulating others.

• The cunning thief managed to steal the jewels without being caught.
• She had a cunning look in her eye as she devised her scheme.

Crafty typically has a negative connotation and suggests someone who is skillful in achieving their aims through deceit or trickery.

• The crafty fox outwitted the hunters.
• He made a crafty plan to win the game by cheating.

Sagacious is a more formal term and is used to describe someone who has keen mental discernment and good judgment. It reflects wisdom and insight.

• The sagacious leader guided the country through tough times.
• Her sagacious advice always came at the right moment.

Discerning usually refers to someone who shows good judgment and insight in understanding things. It is often positive and implies a deep level of understanding or appreciation.

• He is a discerning reader who can appreciate the subtle nuances in literature.
• A discerning customer, she only buys the best quality products.