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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio also defended the military strikes, saying at a Senate hearing in June that the Defense Department determined the strikes' legality and based its decisions on intelligence information.
    — Chris Boccia, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026
  • So that expedited growth also reflects Simmons’ drive and intelligence — among other traits that animate the athleticism of his 6-foot-4, 215-pound frame and powerful left throwing arm.
    — Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 3 Aug. 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
  • Barack Obama’s summer book list came out this week, revealing fresh insights about which authors the 44th president turns to again and again for his warm-weather reading.
    — Ela Jalil, Washington Post, 31 July 2026
  • If not, how each performs could give an insight into what the manager is looking for from them and whether those demands differ according to their respective skill sets.
    — Art de Roché, New York Times, 31 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 5 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of shrewdness for Spanish Speakers

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