shrewdness

noun

Definition of shrewdnessnext
as in intelligence
exceptional discernment and judgment especially in practical matters a woman with the thick-skinned shrewdness to survive in a tough business

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of shrewdness Spain’s shrewdness came in their refusal to engage with off-the-ball trivialities. — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 20 July 2026 Instead, Franklin will rise by virtue of hard work and (actual) shrewdness. — John Swansburg, The Atlantic, 15 June 2026 Humble but strong, philosophical but pragmatic, Kingsley's interpretation of the leader manages to balance both his spirituality and shrewdness, simultaneously demystifying an icon while also adding another layer to the legend. — Devan Coggan, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Mar. 2026 Venusian shrewdness and Mercurian intelligence are coming together to boost your analytical powers — at least, in regard to your own finances. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shrewdness
  1. intelligence
  2. wit
  3. acumen
  4. insight
Noun
  • Unlike the direct style under Glasner, Sage’s way of playing may allow for more space to make the most of Pino’s intelligence, interplay and technical and passing ability.
    — Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 21 July 2026
  • But, citing Iraqi intelligence estimates, Mohammed said the number of ISIS fighters in neighboring Syria has increased from around 2,000 to as many as 10,000 since the collapse of Bashar Assad's government in 2024.
    — Emma Bussey, FOXNews.com, 20 July 2026
Definition of intelligence
Noun
  • Carson has brought him here to welcome a range of conversations and guests that the show’s usual host, that paragon of midwestern affability and assuring wit, couldn’t welcome himself.
    — Joshua Jelly-Schapiro, Vanity Fair, 21 July 2026
  • The family-friendly mythological comedy follows eight ordinary mortals who must use their collective wit and courage to outsmart formidable deities, ultimately earning the legendary title of the Eight Immortals.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 20 July 2026
Definition of wit
Noun
  • Cignetti has tapped into a distinctly Hoosier brand of team pride, which proves that his acumen is just as strong off the football field as on it.
    — Domenica Bongiovanni, IndyStar, 28 Jan. 2026
  • The guys up at Auburn rave about his intelligence, his football acumen and his work ethic.
    — Creg Stephenson | [email protected], al, 20 Jan. 2023
Definition of acumen
Noun
  • The new glasses, similarly, can take in the world around users and provide live translation in a foreign country or nutrition insights in a grocery store — and with the new chips, this complex processing can occur locally on the device.
    — Noelle Harff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 July 2026
  • The Star-Telegram attended a screening of the film and heard insights from writer-director Evan Miller, who is from Pampa, Texas.
    — Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 July 2026
Definition of insight

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Cite this Entry

“Shrewdness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shrewdness. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on shrewdness

Nglish: Translation of shrewdness for Spanish Speakers

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