crossword clue for cunning – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all the possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "crossword clue for cunning". Whether you're looking for a short, punchy answer or a longer, more descriptive one, we've got you covered. Dive in and find the perfect word to complete your puzzle!
Solutions for "crossword clue for cunning" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SLY: Often implies a clever and mischievous nature, or someone artfully deceptive.
4 Letters
WILY: Skilled at gaining an advantage, especially deceitfully; full of wiles.
FOXY: Clever, shrewd, or deceptive, like a fox; can imply attractiveness.
6 Letters
ARTFUL: Clever or skillful, especially in a crafty or cunning way; often with a hint of deceit.
SHREWD: Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute or sagacious, often in practical matters.
CRAFTY: Clever at achieving one's aims by indirect or deceitful methods.
TRICKY: Needing careful handling or skill; difficult to deal with or accomplish; sometimes implying deceit.
ASTUTE: Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage.
8 Letters
SCHEMING: Given to or involved in the making of plans, especially in a devious or underhanded way.
9 Letters
DESIGNING: Characterized by cunning and deceit, especially in a self-serving way.
DECEPTIVE: Giving an appearance or impression different from the true one; misleading.
More About "cunning" in Crosswords
The word "cunning" is a fascinating clue in crosswords because it encompasses a wide range of meanings, from shrewd intelligence to sly trickery. When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a general knowledge crossword, a cryptic crossword, or something else? This can guide you towards whether the desired answer leans more towards intellectual sharpness or a more devious nature.
Common synonyms for "cunning" include terms like 'artful,' 'shrewd,' 'sly,' 'wily,' and 'crafty.' Each of these carries a slightly different nuance, which expert crossword setters often exploit. For instance, 'shrewd' might fit a clue about a clever business person, while 'wily' could describe a fox or a con artist. Paying attention to these subtle differences is key to unlocking the correct answer.
Understanding the various shades of "cunning" not only helps in solving current puzzles but also builds your vocabulary and intuition for future challenges. Remember that setters love to play on words, and "cunning" can sometimes be used in a more literal sense, referring to skill or dexterity, though this is less common than its intellectual or deceptive meanings.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly, helping you focus on relevant words like the 3-letter 'SLY' or the 6-letter 'ARTFUL'.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: If the direct answer isn't coming to mind, brainstorm synonyms for "cunning" and then synonyms for those synonyms. Sometimes, an antonym might also spark an idea if the clue is playing on opposites.
- Analyze Cross-References: Look at the letters that intersect with your target word from other clues. These fixed letters can be invaluable in confirming a strong candidate or eliminating incorrect ones.
- Consult a Thesaurus for Nuance: For clues like "cunning" that have multiple similar answers, a quick check of a thesaurus can help you understand the subtle differences between words like 'crafty' vs. 'astute', guiding you to the most precise fit for the specific puzzle's tone.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'cunning' typically imply in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'cunning' often points to answers related to cleverness, trickery, artfulness, or shrewdness. It can sometimes imply a slightly negative connotation, suggesting deceit or slyness, but can also refer to intelligent strategy or ingenuity.
Are 'cunning' and 'clever' always interchangeable in crosswords?
While 'cunning' and 'clever' share common ground, 'cunning' often carries a nuance of craftiness, deceit, or self-interest that 'clever' might not. 'Clever' can be purely about intelligence, while 'cunning' frequently suggests a more artful or manipulative application of intelligence.
How can I distinguish between similar 'cunning' answers like SLY and WILY?
Pay attention to the letter count and the overall theme of the puzzle. 'SLY' is shorter and often implies a mischievous or elusive cleverness. 'WILY' emphasizes a skilled, often deceptive, strategic cleverness. Contextual clues or surrounding letters are key.