Wily
Adjective
Definition: Skilled at gaining an advantage, especially deceitfully.
Synonyms: Cunning, Crafty, Sly, Tricky, Devious
Antonyms: Honest, Naive, Straightforward, Innocent
- The wily fox outsmarted the hunters by leading them in circles.
- The wily politician used manipulation and charm to win the election.
- "Wily" sounds like "wily coyote", a famous cartoon character known for his cleverness and trickery.
- Think of the phrase "wily as a fox", which signifies someone who is cunning and sly.
Etymology:
The word "wily" originated from the Old English word "wilīġ" or "wihle", meaning deceitful or cunning.
Historical Usage:The term has been used since the medieval period to describe individuals who possess great skill in using cunning and deceit to achieve their goals.
Related Idioms:
"Wily as a fox"
Explanation:This idiom means to be extremely cunning and clever in a way that resembles the behavior of a fox, which is known for its sly and deceptive nature.
Misconceptions:
Considering "wily" as synonymous with "wise" or "intelligent".
Explanation:While "wily" implies a certain level of intelligence, it specifically emphasizes the cunning and deceitful aspect of one's behavior, rather than simply denoting wisdom or intellectual ability.