Cunning meaning

Cunning is the ability to achieve goals through deception or manipulation.


Cunning definitions

Word backwards gninnuc
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "cunning" can be an adjective or a noun. As an adjective, "cunning" describes someone or something as having skill at achieving one's ends through deceit or evasion. As a noun, "cunning" refers to the quality of being clever, deceitful, or sly in achieving one's aims.
Syllabic division cun-ning
Plural The plural of the word "cunning" is "cunnings."
Total letters 7
Vogais (2) u,i
Consonants (3) c,n,g

Cunning in Human Behavior

Cunning is a trait often associated with cleverness, deceit, and manipulation. It involves the ability to think quickly and come up with creative solutions to problems. Those who possess cunning tend to be strategic in their thinking and often use their abilities to achieve their goals, even if it means bending or breaking the rules.

Characteristics of Cunning Individuals

Cunning individuals are often skilled at reading people and situations, allowing them to manipulate others to their advantage. They are adept at using charm and wit to influence others and often have a strong sense of self-preservation. While cunning can be a valuable trait in certain situations, it can also be seen as untrustworthy and manipulative by others.

The Difference Between Cunning and Intelligence

While cunning is often associated with intelligence, the two are not the same. Intelligence involves having a high level of cognitive ability and problem-solving skills, while cunning is more about using one's intelligence in a strategic and often deceptive way. Cunning individuals may use their intelligence to deceive others or achieve their own self-serving goals.

The Role of Cunning in History and Literature

Cunning has played a significant role in history and literature, with many famous figures being known for their cunning tactics. Characters like Odysseus in Homer's "The Odyssey" and Machiavelli in his political treatise "The Prince" are often cited as examples of cunning individuals who used their intelligence and wit to achieve their goals.

Embracing or Rejecting Cunning

Whether cunning is seen as a positive or negative trait often depends on the context in which it is used. Some may view cunning as a necessary skill for survival in a competitive world, while others may see it as morally questionable. Ultimately, the decision to embrace or reject cunning is a personal one that can have significant implications for how one is perceived by others.


Cunning Examples

  1. The cunning fox outsmarted the hunter by leading him into a trap.
  2. She used her cunning wit to win the argument.
  3. The cunning spy escaped capture by blending into the crowd.
  4. With cunning precision, the burglar disabled the alarm system.
  5. The cunning plan unfolded flawlessly, much to everyone's surprise.
  6. He relied on his cunning instincts to survive in the wilderness.
  7. The cunning businessman negotiated a deal that greatly benefited his company.
  8. Through cunning manipulation, she was able to turn the situation to her advantage.
  9. The cunning magician dazzled the audience with his sleight of hand tricks.
  10. In a display of cunning strategy, the general outmaneuvered his opponent on the battlefield.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 21/06/2024 - 01:55:15