a cunning strategy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cunning strategy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a clever or skillful plan designed to achieve a specific goal, often in a competitive context. Example: "The team's success was largely due to a cunning strategy that outsmarted their opponents at every turn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Is this a cunning strategy to make Abbott and other members of his embattled government appear remotely in control of their faculties?

The Guardian - Opinion

I was given more treats when I was kind to my sister, but scolded when I deployed a cunning strategy to beat her at Monopoly.

The Guardian

Pouring honeyed words into the ears of Radio 4 listeners - notoriously attached to their network - to persuade them that there are not barbarians at the gate is a cunning strategy.

The Guardian

But I've always wondered, in retrospect and not entirely in jest, if what she had witnessed was the beginning of a cunning strategy, an intuitive design for gluttonous living.

The New York Times - Magazine

Lane Hudson, a former Democratic staffer, filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission, alleging that Mr Thompson was ignoring "the letter and spirit" of the law by running a full-blown campaign without formally declaring his candidacy.Mr Thompson's biggest problem stemmed from what, at first, appeared to be a cunning strategy: running for president without declaring that he was running.

The Economist

Those in the windowless auditorium could have been down the road in Des Moines, enjoying deep-fried butter-on-a-stick, pork-chops-on-a-stick and other delights at the Iowa State Fair, a legendary institution that is currently in full swing.At a minimum, Mr Cruz has more charm than some might imagine, and the beginnings of a cunning strategy for navigating the Republican primary.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

I'd been puzzled about why blue-chip B&R would plonk us down in this sorry city for even a night, but now I see its cunning strategy.

Forbes

But, on Monday, he revealed a cunning campaign strategy, designed to appeal to an important demographic that, hitherto, has been sorely neglected by both major parties: Americans who live near busy airports.

The New Yorker

In fact, Gordon, the four-time series champion, has not won since June 10, when his crew chief, Steve Letarte, used a cunning pit strategy to help Gordon win a rain-shortened race at Pocono.

The New York Times - Sports

My cunning strategy this summer?

The Guardian - Opinion

There is cunning, strategy, dodgy dealings.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a cunning strategy" to describe a plan that is not only clever but also potentially deceptive or manipulative, often implying a competitive context.

Common error

While "cunning" can add color to your writing, be mindful of the potential negative connotations. In formal or professional settings, consider using alternatives like "clever" or "astute" to avoid implying dishonesty or trickery.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cunning strategy" functions as a noun phrase, where "cunning" modifies the noun "strategy". It is often used as a subject complement or object in a sentence, describing the nature of a plan or approach. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a cunning strategy" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to depict a clever and resourceful plan, often with an element of deception or manipulation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Its usage is most prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While "cunning" adds a specific flavor, users should be aware of its potential negative connotations in more formal settings and could opt for alternatives such as "a clever plan" or "a shrewd tactic". When employing the phrase, writers should aim to convey intelligence, but be mindful of the ethical implications. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to concisely convey a sense of both cleverness and potential trickery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tactical masterstroke

Emphasizes exceptional skill and strategic brilliance.

a clever tactic

Emphasizes skill and ingenuity in achieving a goal.

a calculated move

Indicates careful consideration and anticipation of outcomes.

an ingenious scheme

Highlights inventiveness and resourcefulness.

a strategic initiative

Highlights the proactive and forward-thinking nature.

a shrewd maneuver

Focuses on astuteness and practical wisdom.

a well-thought-out plan

Focuses on the thoroughness and planning involved.

a wily approach

Suggests craftiness and deception.

a subtle ploy

Implies a delicate and understated tactic.

a deceptive practice

Highlights the element of misleading or deceiving others.

FAQs

How can I use "a cunning strategy" in a sentence?

You can use "a cunning strategy" to describe a plan that is clever and skillfully designed to achieve a particular goal, especially in a competitive situation. For example, "The company employed "a cunning strategy" to outmaneuver its rivals in the market".

What are some alternatives to "a cunning strategy"?

Alternatives include "a clever plan", "a shrewd tactic", or "an ingenious scheme", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "cunning" always a positive attribute when describing a strategy?

Not necessarily. While "cunning" implies cleverness, it can also suggest deception or manipulation. Therefore, consider the context and your audience when using the phrase "a cunning strategy".

What is the difference between "a cunning strategy" and "a smart strategy"?

While both imply intelligence, "a smart strategy" generally suggests intelligence and efficiency, whereas "a cunning strategy" suggests a clever and possibly manipulative approach. A "smart strategy" focuses on intelligence; "a cunning strategy" focuses on outsmarting others, potentially through deception.