Is there such a word as cunningness?

cun·ning. adj. 1. Marked by or given to artful subtlety and deceptiveness.

What is a positive word for cunning?

Some common synonyms of cunning are artful, crafty, foxy, slick, sly, tricky, and wily. While all these words mean “attaining or seeking to attain one’s ends by guileful or devious means,” cunning suggests the inventive use of sometimes limited intelligence in overreaching or circumventing.

What is the synonym of intelligent?

Some common synonyms of intelligent are alert, clever, and quick-witted. While all these words mean “mentally keen or quick,” intelligent stresses success in coping with new situations and solving problems. an intelligent person could assemble it fast.

Is clever a compliment?

clever Add to list Share. Clever may seem like a compliment, but this adjective boasts a rather broad range of meanings—from “intelligent” and “imaginative” to “calculating” or “contrived.” The roots of the word clever, are unknown.

Is it good to be sly?

Being sly means you’re not being honest, but this word has kind of a harmless flavor to it. Someone who killed someone and lied about it would not be described as sly. Slyness has to do with smaller, sneakier, more harmless kinds of lying.

Can cunning be a compliment?

If you do something cunningly, you are being a little sneaky. You might cunningly compliment your mom just to get on her good side before she sees your report card.

What is another word for high intelligence?

2 astute, clever, alert, bright, apt, discerning, shrewd, smart.

How do you praise a smart person?

Complimenting Intelligence, Creativity, and Resourcefulness

1. You’re a smart cookie.
2. Your perspective is refreshing.
3. Your ability to recall random factoids at just the right times is impressive.
4. When you say, “I meant to do that,” I totally believe you.
5. You have the best ideas.

What to say instead of you’re so smart?

10 Things You Can Say Instead of “YOU’RE SO SMART!”

• “Nice work, tell me about how you did that.”
• “Nice grade!
• “Tell me about your drawing/test/essay/etc.”
• “How did you get so good at that?”
• “Did it take a long time to learn how to do that?”
• “Who is someone who helped you get good at that?”

Does Sly mean clever?

If you describe someone as sly, you disapprove of them because they keep their feelings or intentions hidden and are clever at deceiving people. She is devious and sly and manipulative.