What does shrewder mean?
Shrewder is an adjective that describes someone with a keen and clever mind. It is often used to describe businesspeople, politicians, or others who are able to make smart decisions and spot opportunities. The word is derived from the Old English word 'scraw', meaning 'to be cunning' or 'to be clever'. Shrewder is a useful word for describing someone who is perceptive and able to make informed decisions. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from business and politics to everyday conversation. However, it is worth noting that shrewder can sometimes be used in a slightly negative way, implying that someone is overly clever or manipulative. Overall, shrewder is a useful word for describing someone with a sharp and discerning intellect.
adjectiveHaving or showing a keen and clever mind; having a sharp and discerning intellect.
- Having or showing a keen and clever mind; having a sharp and discerning intellect.
"She was a shrewder businesswoman than her competitors, able to spot opportunities and make smart investments."
"She was a shrewder businesswoman than her competitors, able to spot opportunities and make smart investments."
"His shrewder insights helped the team make a more informed decision."
The plural form of shrewder is used to describe multiple people who are perceptive and able to make smart decisions.
"The team of shrewder investors was able to make a more informed decision than their competitors."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of shrewder
The word shrewder is derived from the Old English word 'scraw', meaning 'to be cunning' or 'to be clever'. This word is also the source of the word 'shrew', which refers to a type of small mammal. Over time, the word shrewder evolved to describe someone with a keen and clever mind. Today, shrewder is used in a variety of contexts to describe someone who is perceptive and able to make smart decisions.
Usage notes
Shrewder is often used to describe someone who is perceptive and able to make smart decisions. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but is more commonly used in business and professional settings.