canny crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the "canny crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, neatly categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your puzzle.
Solutions for "canny crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SLY: Suggesting a subtle or cunning cleverness, sometimes with a hint of mischievousness.
4 Letters
WISE: Exhibiting good judgment and knowledge, often gained from experience.
5 Letters
SMART: Possessing quick intelligence; able to think quickly and effectively.
6 Letters
SHREWD: Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute and practical.
ASTUTE: Showing a keen practical intelligence, especially in assessing situations.
CLEVER: Quick at learning and understanding things; ingenious.
ARTFUL: Skilful, especially in a cunning or crafty way, implying ingenuity.
More About "canny crossword clue"
"Canny" is a popular crossword clue because it evokes a range of synonyms related to intelligence, shrewdness, and practicality. Originally from Scottish English, "canny" describes someone who is careful, astute, and often thrifty or prudent, especially concerning money. This makes it a versatile clue that can lead to answers emphasizing different facets of this trait, from sharp intellect to a more cautious, worldly wisdom.
When you encounter "canny" in a crossword, the setter is usually looking for a word that reflects intelligence or strategic thinking. Depending on the grid and the number of letters, the answer could highlight a person's sharp mind, their ability to navigate complex situations, or even a subtle, almost sly cleverness. Paying attention to any other intersecting letters will often be the key to distinguishing between multiple valid synonyms.
Understanding the nuances of "canny" can greatly assist in solving. While it often implies a positive trait, a 'canny' person might also be seen as a bit 'sly' or 'cunning' if their shrewdness borders on manipulative. Crossword setters love these subtle shifts in meaning, so consider the context of the puzzle, and the likely tone of the answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the length of the clue's answer to the number of available boxes. This immediately filters out many possibilities.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Crosswords frequently use synonyms. For "canny," think of words that mean clever, intelligent, wise, or shrewd. Sometimes, the clue might hint at an opposite, so keep an eye out for negative prefixes.
- Check for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are your most powerful hints, often narrowing down options to a single correct word.
- Think About British vs. American English: "Canny" is more common in British English, and sometimes clues can lean into regional variations. Be open to both common and less common synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'canny' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'canny' typically refers to someone who is shrewd, astute, clever, or smart, especially in practical affairs or financial matters. It implies a degree of wisdom, carefulness, and often a subtle cunning.
How do I find answers for 'canny' in crosswords if I'm stuck?
If you're stuck, consider the number of letters required. Common synonyms for 'canny' like SHREWD, ASTUTE, CLEVER, SMART, WISE, or SLY are good starting points. Also, check surrounding letters if any are filled in, as this can narrow down options. Think about the overall tone of the puzzle – is it formal, informal, or aiming for wordplay?
Are there different shades of meaning for 'canny' in puzzles?
Yes, 'canny' can have slightly different connotations. While primarily meaning shrewd or clever, it can sometimes lean towards 'cautious' or 'frugal' in specific contexts, especially in British English. Be aware of the puzzle's setter and origin, as this might influence the intended nuance.