shrewd knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shrewd knowledge" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used to describe a type of knowledge that is astute or perceptive, particularly in practical matters or decision-making. Example: "Her shrewd knowledge of the market allowed her to make profitable investments."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

What his body could no longer accomplish in terms of pure physical ability he could compensate for with his shrewd knowledge of both the game and the opposing players.

The New Yorker

But Botvinnik was the better psychologist, had a shrewd knowledge of chess politics and made wily use of rules where 12-12 kept his title in 1954 and his 1957 defeat gave him a return series where he caught the flu-stricken Smyslov at the start.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Jean had a shrewder knowledge than most journalists of her own strengths and weaknesses.

The Guardian

But given that lead US negotiator John Melle is allegedly a shrewd cynic with an encyclopedic knowledge of North American trade policy who is impervious to the Canadian charm campaign, we might have met our match there too.

Vice

All these criticisms sound futile, the last resort of organisations who do not wish to surrender to simple scientifically proven hard facts: in the end, instead of dominating our field of knowledge, they will empower shrewd administrators to just impose draconian cuts.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Lately the great swamp-pop musician Mac Rebennack has been showing us more of the jazz knowledge he has under that shrewd sense of humor.

The New York Times

But Brookhiser effectively argues that Madison, by melding his knowledge of political theory with shrewd political instincts, deserves a place close to the top of the list of America's most successful politicians.

The New York Times - Books

In his conjectures, Kennan is guided both by a shrewd sense of character and by an impressive knowledge of the folkways of his New England ancestors.

The New York Times - Books

"His calm, courteous and avuncular demeanour masked a sharp intelligence, shrewd diplomatic skills, a great sense of humour and huge knowledge of and affection for books and book people".

The Guardian - Books

At the instigation of the serpent, the shrewdest of the beasts, who holds out the possibility of attaining godlike knowledge, the woman eats of the fruit of the tree of knowledge and gives some to her husband to eat also.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But nevertheless, considering our 21st century knowledge of the universe, a good example of intelligent or, at the very least, shrewd thinking.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shrewd knowledge", consider whether a more common phrase like "keen insight" or "astute understanding" might be more appropriate for your audience and context.

Common error

Avoid using "shrewd knowledge" excessively in formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound slightly awkward. Opt for more conventional phrases such as "astute understanding" or "perceptive insight" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shrewd knowledge" functions as a noun phrase, where "shrewd" modifies the noun "knowledge". It describes a particular type of knowledge characterized by intelligence and practical awareness. Ludwig provides examples of how this phrase is used to highlight someone's understanding and skill in a specific domain.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shrewd knowledge" is a phrase used to describe knowledge that is insightful and practically applied. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI suggests that it may sound slightly awkward and advises considering alternatives such as "keen insight" or "astute understanding". The phrase appears primarily in news and media contexts. Although understandable, opting for more common alternatives might enhance clarity and reception, especially in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

astute understanding

Replaces "shrewd" with "astute" and "knowledge" with "understanding", offering a slightly more formal tone.

keen insight

Substitutes "shrewd" with "keen" and "knowledge" with "insight", emphasizing sharpness and depth of perception.

perceptive intelligence

Replaces "shrewd" with "perceptive" and "knowledge" with "intelligence", highlighting the ability to understand things quickly and accurately.

acute awareness

Emphasizes a sharp and heightened sense of consciousness or understanding, shifting the focus from general knowledge to specific awareness.

sharp discernment

Focuses on the ability to judge well, implying a keen ability to distinguish subtle differences.

insightful comprehension

Combines the ideas of deep understanding and grasping complex ideas, moving away from simple knowledge.

clever understanding

Uses "clever" as a synonym for "shrewd" and "understanding" in place of "knowledge", making the phrase slightly more informal.

sagacious perception

Replaces both words with more formal and sophisticated synonyms, focusing on wisdom and acute sensory understanding.

worldly wisdom

Focuses on knowledge gained through experience, especially of the practical aspects of life.

practical intelligence

Highlights the ability to apply knowledge effectively in real-world situations, emphasizing usefulness.

FAQs

What does "shrewd knowledge" mean?

The phrase "shrewd knowledge" refers to a deep understanding of a situation, combined with intelligence and the ability to use that knowledge to one's advantage.

How can I use "shrewd knowledge" in a sentence?

You might say, "Her "shrewd knowledge" of the market allowed her to make profitable investments", or "He compensated for his physical decline with his "shrewd knowledge" of the game".

What are some synonyms for "shrewd knowledge"?

Alternatives include "keen insight", "astute understanding", or "perceptive intelligence". These options may provide a more polished or formal tone, depending on the specific context.

Is "shrewd knowledge" a common phrase in English?

While grammatically correct, "shrewd knowledge" is not as common as other similar phrases. Consider using alternatives like "keen insight" if you aim for broader clarity and acceptance.