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sly

adjective

/slaɪ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sly

Cunning, crafty, or deceitful in a subtle or sneaky manner.
"His sly remark revealed his true intentions behind the seemingly innocent conversation."

Detailed meaning of sly

It suggests a cleverness or shrewdness used to achieve personal gain or manipulate situations without drawing attention or arousing suspicion. A person described as sly is often skilled at concealing their true intentions or motives, using their intelligence and wit to achieve their goals. Their actions are marked by a calculated and strategic approach, often involving trickery or manipulation to outsmart others. Sly behavior can range from harmless mischief to more malicious and duplicitous actions. It is important to be cautious of individuals who exhibit sly tendencies, as they may have ulterior motives or be prone to dishonesty in their interactions.

Example sentences containing sly

1. He gave me a sly grin, hinting at his mischievous plan.
2. The sly fox stealthily stalked its prey through the underbrush.
3. Her sly remark revealed her hidden agenda.
4. The cat's sly movements allowed it to pounce on the unsuspecting mouse.
5. He used his sly charm to manipulate others into doing his bidding.
6. The detective noticed the suspect's sly demeanor during questioning.

History and etymology of sly

The adjective 'sly' has its etymological origins in the Old English word 'sly,' which meant wise or prudent. This Old English term evolved from the Proto-Germanic word 'sleuwis,' which conveyed the sense of intelligence or cleverness. Over time, the meaning of 'sly' underwent a transformation, acquiring connotations of cunning, craftiness, or deceitfulness, particularly in a subtle or sneaky manner. This shift in meaning reflects the idea that someone who is wise and clever can also be adept at using their intelligence for less-than-honest purposes. Thus, the word 'sly' today denotes a person or action characterized by a hidden or deceptive cleverness, capturing the essence of cunning and subtlety in one's approach.

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Further usage examples of sly

1. With a sly wink, he passed me a secret note.
2. The sly old man tricked the villagers out of their money.
3. Her sly tactics allowed her to win the game without her opponents suspecting a thing.
4. The politician employed sly tactics to gain an advantage over his opponents.
5. The thief was known for his sly techniques of breaking into houses undetected.
6. She gave me a sly glance, indicating that she had something up her sleeve.
7. The con artist used his sly charm to swindle unsuspecting victims.
8. His sly sense of humor always kept everyone guessing.
9. The sly salesman used cunning techniques to convince customers to buy unnecessary products.
10. She played a sly trick on her brother, causing him to fall for her prank.
11. The sly thief slipped through the crowd, unnoticed and without a trace.
12. His sly manipulation of facts made it difficult to discern the truth.
13. The sly teenager devised a plan to sneak out of the house without her parents knowing.
14. The sly magician delighted the audience with his clever illusions.