What does shrewd mean?
Shrewd describes someone or something that is perceptive, practical, and able to make good judgments, especially in matters of money, politics, or personal advantage. A shrewd negotiator notices what others may overlook and uses that insight effectively, while a shrewd decision is often well judged and financially or strategically sensible. The word can also carry a less flattering implication of craftiness: a shrewd businessperson may be admired, but a shrewd scheme may suggest manipulation or self-interest. It is a useful term when discussing practical intelligence and knowing how to act in complex situations, and it occupies a middle ground between the broad approval of clever and the more neutral precision of astute.
adjectiveHaving or showing good practical judgment and cleverness; astute and perceptive. The word can also imply craftiness or calculating self-interest, depending on context.
- Having or showing good practical judgment; astute and perceptive.
- Artful, crafty, or self-serving in a calculating way.
"Her shrewd negotiating skills helped the company secure a better agreement."
"The politician made a shrewd decision to remain silent during the debate."
"His shrewd approach to the negotiations was admired by the board, though some colleagues found it calculating."
A shrewd choice can be clever, but a shrewd bargain can also be ruthlessly self-serving: the word carries both admiration and a hint of calculation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shrewd come from?
Shrewd developed in Middle English from a word meaning crafty or cunning. That ancestor is related to the word shrew, an insect-eating mammal, and the connection may reflect the animal's traditionally cunning or malicious reputation. Over time, the adjective came to emphasize practical cleverness and sound judgment, while retaining the possibility of a negative sense involving calculated self-interest.
Related word forms
How shrewd is actually used
The adjective is used in both formal and informal English. It is generally complimentary when describing sound judgment, but can become negative when it suggests cunning or an excessive concern with personal advantage.
Easily confused with shrewd
Shrewd is an adjective describing a person, plan, or action, whereas shrewdness is the noun meaning the quality of being shrewd.
Shrewd means astute or crafty, while a shrew is a small insect-eating mammal; the words also have different historical pronunciations and meanings.