cunning

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As Simon Elliott describes in his biography “The African Emperor,” Severus was a mercurial and contradictory character, capable by turns of savagery, cunning, wit and generosity, and always blessed with a sense of the theatrical.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

As Thia tries to complete the mission she failed alongside her synthetic sister, Fanning relishes the chance to play the far more violent and cunning counterpart, Tessa.

From Salon • Jan. 24, 2026

Fiona later admitted: "My cunning plan was not cunning at all!"

From BBC • Jan. 10, 2026

Tagawa became one of Hollywood’s most reliable character actors, typically cast as the elegant and cunning villain.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2025

He was smart and cunning, but his gaze was wistful.

From "The One and Only Ivan" by Katherine Applegate