Need another word for Shrewdness? Use these synonyms of Shrewdness from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
astuteness
cleverness
sharpness
cunning
craftiness
wiliness
guile
slyness
subtlety
discernment
perception
acuteness
keenness
sagacity
perspicacity
prudence
judiciousness
canniness
street smarts
common sense
intelligence
wit
wisdom
foresight
vigilance
alertness
circumspection
cautiousness
wariness
watchfulness
attentiveness
mindfulness
sharp-wittedness
quick-wittedness
Meaning of Shrewdness
The quality of being shrewd, or having a keen understanding and cleverness in dealing with situations.
Definitions
- Having or showing a keen understanding and cleverness in dealing with situations, especially in a way that is slightly dishonest or unfair
- * Having a natural ability to make good judgments and decisions, especially in a way that is slightly cunning or deceitful
Etymology of Shrewdness
The word "shrewdness" originates from the Old English word "scrēawd" or "scrēad", which referred to a shrew, a small, typically insectivorous mammal, often considered cunning or sly
The term "shrewd" emerged in Middle English (circa 1300-1500), initially meaning "having a strong or violent character", later evolving to convey a sense of cleverness or cunning
Example Uses
- Her shrewdness in business negotiations earned her a reputation as a formidable entrepreneur
- * He used his shrewdness to manipulate the situation to his advantage
- * The politician's shrewdness in handling the crisis helped to boost her popularity
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
naivety
gullibility
foolishness
recklessness
impulsiveness
carelessness
thoughtlessness
rashness
impetuosity
imprudence
shortsightedness
obtuseness
dullness
stupidity
ignorance
simplicity
artlessness
innocence
guilelessness
credulity
trustfulness
unsophistication