What is cunning? Pronunciation and usage in English

cunning means . Learn how to pronounce and use cunning through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of cunning

cunningadjective

/ˈkʌnɪŋ//ˈkʌnɪŋ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "cunning." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "Cun" - This is the most important part. It's pronounced like the "kun" in the word "trunk." It’s a short, crisp "kun" sound. Don’t pronounce the "c" sound here.

2. The "ning" at the End:

  • “ning” - This part sounds like "ning" in the word "singing." It's a quick, light "ning" sound.

Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced: “kun-ning”

Tips to help:

  • Focus on the "kun" sound: Really emphasize that “kun” sound. That’s the key to getting it right.
  • Don't pronounce the "c": The "c" is silent in "cunning."
  • Say it slowly at first: Practice saying “kun-ning” slowly, really focusing on each syllable.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce cunning" on Google and listen to the audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/cunning/ - This website has pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Many pronunciation videos on YouTube can demonstrate.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "cunning"?

Usage and examples with the word cunning in English

Let's break down how to use the word "cunning" effectively in English. It's a wonderfully evocative word with a specific meaning, and it's important to use it correctly.

1. Core Meaning:

At its heart, "cunning" describes someone who is clever and skillful, often in a way that's sneaky or deceptive. It’s more than just being intelligent; it implies a tendency to use tricks and strategies to get what they want.

2. Different Ways to Use It:

Here’s a breakdown of how you can use "cunning" in different contexts:

  • Describing a Person: This is the most common use.

    • Positive (though sometimes shaded): “He was a cunning strategist, always anticipating his opponents' moves.” (Here, it means he was exceptionally good at planning and being ahead of the game.)
    • Negative (more common): “The fox was a cunning animal, using its tricks to lure prey.” (A classic example – suggesting slyness and manipulation.)
    • Negative (human): “She was a cunning businesswoman, willing to bend the rules to succeed.” (Highlights a potentially unethical approach.)
    • Example: “The detective recognized the cunning smile of the suspect – he knew something was up.”

  • Describing an Animal's Behavior: "Cunning" is frequently used to describe animals that use clever tactics for survival.

    • "The cunning spider spun a complex web to trap its victims."
    • “The cunning fox used the shadows to sneak into the farmer’s pen.”

  • Describing a Plan or Strategy: You can also use "cunning" to describe a clever plan itself.

    • "The cunning plan involved luring the guard away from the door."
    • "They devised a cunning scheme to outsmart the competition.”

  • Figurative Use (Less Common): Sometimes, "cunning" can be used metaphorically to describe something intricate or cleverly designed.

    • “The architect’s cunning design incorporated natural light beautifully.” (Here, it’s about clever engineering.)

3. Nuances & Related Words:

  • Sly: Often interchangeable with "cunning," but "sly" tends to emphasize the secretive and mischievous aspect.
  • Devious: “Devious” suggests a more deliberate intent to trick or mislead.
  • Shrewd: "Shrewd" implies a practical intelligence and ability to make smart decisions, often for personal gain. It’s often more positive than "cunning."
  • Crafty: “Crafty” suggests a cleverness that’s often used to outwit others, sometimes with a playful or mischievous intent.

4. Examples in Sentences:

  • “The cunning inventor created a device that could predict the weather with remarkable accuracy.”
  • "He used a cunning argument to convince the jury of his innocence."
  • “The criminals employed a cunning method to bypass the security system.”
  • “The fox’s cunning made it a formidable predator.”

5. Things to Avoid:

  • Overuse: “Cunning” can sound a bit formal or old-fashioned. Use it judiciously.
  • Misapplication: Don’t use it to describe someone merely because they are intelligent. It needs to have a hint of trickery or deceit.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about? (e.g., writing a story, a professional setting, casual conversation?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you want to use the word?

Synonyms for the word cunning

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