Basic Details
Word: Shrewd
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Having or showing sharp judgment and intelligence, especially in practical matters.
Synonyms: Astute, clever, sharp
Antonyms: Naive, foolish, simplistic
Idioms and Phrases
- Shrewd as a fox: Describes someone who is clever and can easily find their way in tricky situations. Example: "He was shrewd as a fox when he negotiated the deal for his business."
- To play the shrewd game: To behave in a smart and cunning way in a particular situation. Example: "She played the shrewd game by getting to know the judges before the competition."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The shrewd detective quickly solved the mystery that puzzled everyone else.
Example 2: She made a shrewd investment that paid off handsomely a few years later.
Example 3: The shrewd businessman knew the best strategies to attract more customers to his shop.
Fun Fact
The word "shrewd" comes from the Old English word "screode," which meant "to hurt or to harm." Over the years, it evolved to signify someone who is sharp and can make shrewd decisions, rather than someone who does harm.
Famous Quote
"It's not whether you win or lose, it's how you play the game." Grantland Rice. This quote reflects the value of being clever and strategic in life, just like being shrewd.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "shrewd" mean?
a) Simple and foolish
b) Having sharp judgment and intelligence
c) Slow and careless
d) Kind and generous
Answer: b) Having sharp judgment and intelligence
2. Which of these is a synonym of "shrewd"?
a) Naive
b) Astute
c) Simple
d) Clumsy
Answer: b) Astute
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "shrewd"?
a) Clever
b) Sharp
c) Naive
d) Smart
Answer: c) Naive
4. Which sentence uses "shrewd" correctly?
a) The shrewd student studied late into the night for the exam.
b) She was shrewd when she chose to skip the party.
c) The shrewd fox quickly ran away from the lion.
d) He made a shrewd decision by investing in the new gadget.
Answer: d) He made a shrewd decision by investing in the new gadget.
5. Which idiom means the same as "shrewd"?
a) To play the innocent card
b) Shrewd as a fox
c) To miss the boat
d) To throw caution to the wind
Answer: b) Shrewd as a fox
