Definitions

canny

[kan-ee] / ˈkæn i /

ADJECTIVE

clever, artful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adroit astute cagey cautious discreet frugal ingenious intelligent judicious prudent shrewd skillful sly subtle wise

WEAK

able acute careful circumspect cunning dexterous foxy having fancy footwork hep knowing nimble-witted perspicacious quick quick-witted sagacious slick slippery smart smooth street smart streetwise wary watchful with it worldly-wise

Antonyms

STRONGEST

awkward careless foolish hasty honest idiotic ignorant imbecile imprudent incautious inept open rash reckless stupid thoughtless uncareful unintelligent unskilled unwise

WEAK

silly

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.

It will take more than stolen KitKats and canny marketing to turn the company around.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

Her versatility - she was threatening with the new ball and canny at the death - will be crucial at the World Cup.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

They also share a reputation for being canny directors of actors, understanding from their experience in the spotlight what to say to a performer and when to say it.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

The reason for that is resoundingly apparent in the documentary “Bernstein’s Wall,” opening at New York’s Film Forum this weekend, which focuses on both Bernstein’s political activism and politically canny sense of his public.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

He waited, canny enough not to commit himself until his wife had agreed to follow suit.

From "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick

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