What does it mean to be shrewd Meaning and Definition
What does it mean to be shrewd
Pronunciation
/ˈʃruːd/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The quality of being clever, astute, and discerning, often in a sly or cunning way, allowing one to make wise decisions and outmaneuver others.
Examples
- She was shrewd in her business dealings, always finding ways to save money.
- He was shrewd enough to see through the manipulation.
Synonyms
- Cunning
- Astute
- Perceptive
Antonyms
- Naive
- Gullible
Additional Information
Being shrewd requires a combination of intelligence, experience, and careful observation. It involves being able to read people and situations, and make informed decisions based on that insight. Shrewd individuals are often able to stay one step ahead of others by anticipating potential problems and finding creative solutions.
In business, being shrewd can mean the difference between success and failure. Shrewd entrepreneurs are able to negotiate favorable deals, identify opportunities, and avoid potential pitfalls.
In personal relationships, being shrewd can help individuals avoid being taken advantage of or manipulated. It allows them to set healthy boundaries and make informed decisions about who they trust.
Etymology
The word “shrewd” comes from the Old English word “screwd”, which means “cunning” or “astute”. It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word “*skru-“, which is related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*skreu-“, meaning “to twist or turn”.
Usage Notes
Shrewd can be used to describe someone’s general nature or a specific action. For example, “She’s a shrewd businesswoman” or “He made a shrewd investment”.
Cultural References
In literature, shrewd characters are often portrayed as clever and cunning, such as the titular character in Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Shrewd as a fox
- Shrewd business sense
Related Words or Phrases
- Astute
- Cunning
- Savvy
Collocations
- Shrewd observer
- Shrewd investor
Frequency of Use
Shrewd is a moderately common word, often used in formal and informal writing, as well as in spoken language.
Common Misspellings
- Shrued
- Shurd