Basic Details
Word: Cunningly
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: In a way that shows cleverness or skill in achieving one's goals, often by deceiving others.
Synonyms: Slyly, craftily, deviously
Antonyms: Honestly, simply, naively
Idioms and Phrases
- To be as cunning as a fox: Used to describe someone who is very clever at tricking others. Example: "He managed to avoid getting caught, proving he was as cunning as a fox."
- Cunning plan: A clever and often deceitful scheme. Example: "She devised a cunning plan to surprise her friend on her birthday."
Usage Examples
Example 1: He cunningly tricked his opponents into revealing their secrets during the game.
Example 2: The thief cunningly hid the stolen jewels in a place nobody would think to look.
Example 3: Cunningly, she convinced her parents to let her stay up late by pretending she had homework to finish.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "cunning" comes from the Old French word "coning," which means "knowledgeable" or "wise"? Over time, it evolved to have a more negative connotation, suggesting cleverness used for deceit.
Famous Quote
"The cunning man knows how to hide his cunning." - Spanish Proverb
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "cunningly" mean?
a) In a straightforward way
b) In a clever and deceitful way
c) In a dull way
d) In a careful way
Answer: b) In a clever and deceitful way
2. Which of these is a synonym of "cunningly"?
a) Honestly
b) Slyly
c) Directly
d) Kindly
Answer: b) Slyly
3. Which word is an antonym of "cunningly"?
a) Craftily
b) Naively
c) Deviously
d) Slyly
Answer: b) Naively
4. Which sentence uses "cunningly" correctly?
a) She cunningly placed her trust in her friends.
b) He cunningly avoided answering the difficult question.
c) They cunningly made a delicious cake.
d) The cat cunningly jumped over the fence.
Answer: b) He cunningly avoided answering the difficult question.
5. What does "as cunning as a fox" mean?
a) Very silly
b) Very clever
c) Very kind
d) Very brave
Answer: b) Very clever
