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shrewd

adjective

/ʃruːd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of shrewd

Astute, clever, and exceptionally sharp-witted in one's judgment and decision-making.
"He was a shrewd negotiator, able to get the best deal for his company."

Detailed meaning of shrewd

When applied to an individual, it signifies a keen and perceptive ability to assess situations, people, or opportunities with great accuracy. A shrewd person often excels in making prudent choices, foreseeing potential outcomes, and navigating complex situations with finesse. This term conveys a sense of wisdom and resourcefulness, suggesting that the person possesses an acute understanding of human nature and a knack for making advantageous decisions. "Shrewd" individuals are often admired for their ability to achieve their goals and capitalize on opportunities through their sharp insight and strategic thinking, whether in business, negotiations, or everyday life.

Example sentences containing shrewd

1. He was shrewd a businessman and knew exactly how to close the deal.
2. He was a shrewd businessman, always looking for new opportunities.
3. She was known for her shrewd political tactics and her ability to get things done.
4. She was a shrewd investor, able to spot profitable trends before others did.
5. He was a shrewd observer, noticing details others missed.
6. She was a shrewd analyst, able to see the underlying patterns in data.

History and etymology of shrewd

The adjective 'shrewd' has its etymological origins in Middle English, where it evolved from the word 'shrewe.' In Middle English, 'shrewe' initially had negative connotations, referring to a wicked or evil person. However, over time, its meaning shifted to describe someone who was astute, clever, and exceptionally sharp-witted in their judgment and decision-making. This transformation in meaning may have been influenced by the Old English word 'scrēawa,' which meant 'cunning' or 'sly.' As a result, 'shrewd' came to embody the qualities of keen insight and practical intelligence, signifying an individual who is adept at making wise and strategic choices. Thus, the etymology of 'shrewd' reflects its historical evolution from a term with negative connotations to one that denotes astuteness and cleverness in judgment and decision-making.

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Further usage examples of shrewd

1. He was a shrewd detective, able to piece together clues to solve the case.
2. She was a shrewd judge of character, able to tell whether someone was trustworthy or not.
3. He was a shrewd strategist, able to outmaneuver his opponents.
4. She was a shrewd observer of human behavior, able to predict how people would react in certain situations.
5. He was a shrewd survivor, able to adapt to changing circumstances.
6. She was a shrewd diplomat, able to navigate complex political situations with ease.
7. His shrewd investments consistently outperform the market.
8. She's renowned as a shrewd and calculating businesswoman.
9. The detective's shrewd deductive skills cracked even the toughest cases.
10. The politician's shrewd strategic maneuvering secured her victory.
11. The businessman's shrewd decision-making propelled his company to success.
12. Her shrewd analysis of consumer behavior informs marketing strategies.
13. The lawyer's shrewd cross-examination exposed critical contradictions.
14. The coach's shrewd game plan exploited the opponent's weaknesses.
15. The CEO's shrewd leadership steered the company through turbulent times.
16. His shrewd risk assessment ensures prudent financial management.
17. The investor's shrewd stock picks consistently generate impressive returns.
18. She possesses a shrewd understanding of market dynamics.
19. The entrepreneur's shrewd market entry strategy disrupted the industry.
20. The teacher's shrewd pedagogical approach fosters critical thinking.
21. His shrewd financial acumen safeguards the organization's stability.
22. The shrewd analysis of big data informs strategic business decisions.
23. The journalist's shrewd investigative reporting exposed systemic corruption.
24. The artist's shrewd choice of colors evokes profound emotions in viewers.
25. The shrewd observation of natural phenomena led to groundbreaking discoveries.
26. The leader's shrewd diplomatic skills defused international tensions.