canny

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.

He’s understood in Ireland as a canny political operator who led his boring center-right party, Fianna Fáil, back to power after a decade in the wilderness.

From Salon • Mar. 18, 2026

There was intrigue over whether heavy-hitting Lopes would change strategy and take a more cautious approach against the canny Volkanovski.

From Barron's • Feb. 1, 2026

However, he's been around the block and is a canny operator.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

“Although many London areas sit at the bottom of the rankings, prospects in London are much improved on those over recent years and there are some opportunities for canny buyers seeking value for money.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 13, 2026

But he was strong, and canny with his pennies: somehow he saved up enough for a cow — Our Cow. not six years old, and strong enough to plow.

From "Good Masters! Sweet Ladies!: Voices from a Medieval Village" by Laura Amy Schlitz