The spelling of the word "cunningness" can be a bit tricky for some people. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈkʌnɪŋnəs/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short u sound /ʌ/ and the letter n is doubled to indicate a stress on the first syllable. The second syllable is pronounced with an unstressed i sound /ə/. The final syllable is also pronounced with an unstressed short e sound /ɪs/. "Cunningness" refers to the quality of being clever, sly, or crafty.
Cunningness is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being cunning. Cunning, in turn, is an adjective that describes someone who is sly, crafty, or slyly clever in a deceptive or deceitful manner. It is often associated with someone who possesses a keen ability to deceive others for their own advantage or to achieve a particular objective.
A person who possesses cunningness is known for their ability to plan and execute actions or strategies in a way that manipulates situations to their benefit, often by taking advantage of the vulnerabilities or naivety of others. This trait is typically seen in individuals who are highly intelligent and have a natural sense of intuition, which enables them to outsmart or outmaneuver others through intricate schemes or shrewd manipulation.
Cunningness is often employed for personal gain or self-interest, and individuals who exhibit this trait are skilled at concealing their true intentions or motives behind a facade of innocence or charm. They exhibit a calculated behavior that may involve strategic choices, cunning manipulation, or subtle persuasion, all with the aim of achieving their desired outcome while avoiding detection or suspicion.
While cunningness can be seen as a negative trait due to the inherent deceit and manipulation involved, it can also be recognized and appreciated as an artful display of intelligence and strategic thinking. However, it is essential to exercise caution and critical thinking when dealing with someone exhibiting cunningness, as their motivations may not always align with the best interests of others.
The word "cunningness" is derived from the adjective "cunning", which originated from Middle English "cunnen", meaning "to know" or "to be able". This Middle English term was adapted from the Old English word "cunnan", which also had the same meanings. Through its historical development, "cunning" gradually evolved to refer to the ability of being clever, sly, or crafty. The suffix "-ness" was added to the adjective "cunning" to form the noun "cunningness", indicating the quality or state of being cunning.