shrewd tactics

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shrewd tactics" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe clever and astute strategies or methods employed to achieve a goal, often in a competitive context. Example: "The company's shrewd tactics in marketing helped them gain a significant edge over their competitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

By shrewd tactics Timoleon defeated his enemies and occupied Syracuse.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The point, they say, is this: any authoritarian power can be shamed, discomfited, made to change course and ultimately overthrown if "people power" and shrewd tactics are combined.

The Economist

Ms Bennett's elevation is an encouraging sign, in that she displayed more awareness of the need for shrewd tactics and strategy than idealistic rivals such as Romayne Phoenix.

The Guardian - Opinion

The immediate causes include a slowing of economic growth, the shrewd tactics of the opposition Democratic Progressive party (DPP), the spoiling role of a third party, and the emergence of a new kind of grassroots activism in Taiwan.

The Guardian

Escaping southward into Araucanian Indian country soon after Valdivia began conquering it in 1550, Lautaro joined the Araucanians, unified their tribal organization, and with their chief, Caupolicán, led them in battle, further improving on the shrewd tactics and stratagems by which they had often defeated the Spaniards.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His Hamilton side played passing football, initiating swift, incisive counter attacks that were built upon well-organised and strategically shrewd tactics.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Terrorists in the kingdom have begun to strike at energy targets—a shrewd tactic.

The Economist

The bad news for Labour is that this studied banality already looks like a shrewd tactic for undermining the New Decency.

The Guardian

During the campaign, this was seen as a shrewd tactic to stop the BJP turning it into a presidential-style contest between an untested, foreign-born novice and the popular, statesmanlike Mr Vajpayee.

The Economist

But it's a shrewd tactic when you zoom out.

TechCrunch

Here's hoWhile

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a successful outcome, use "shrewd tactics" to emphasize the cleverness and effectiveness of the methods used in achieving that outcome.

Common error

While "shrewd tactics" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "smart moves" or "clever plans" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shrewd tactics" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "shrewd" modifies the noun "tactics". This combination emphasizes the clever and astute nature of the strategies employed. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shrewd tactics" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes clever and effective strategies. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's more commonly found in neutral to professional contexts such as news and encyclopedias. To enhance your writing, remember to use it when you want to emphasize the cleverness and effectiveness of certain strategies, and avoid overuse in casual settings. Alternatives like "clever tactics" or "astute methods" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase is well-regarded in authoritative sources, indicating its reliability and precision in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clever tactics

Focuses on the intelligence and ingenuity of the tactics.

astute methods

Emphasizes the keenness and sagacity of the methods employed.

skillful strategies

Highlights the expertise and adroitness involved in the strategies.

cunning maneuvers

Suggests a level of trickery and deception in the actions taken.

intelligent ploys

Stresses the calculated and rational nature of the ploys.

sharp strategies

Indicates a keen and perceptive approach to the strategies.

crafty approaches

Highlights the artful and ingenious quality of the approaches.

wise actions

Emphasizes the good judgment and prudence in the actions taken.

ingenious schemes

Focuses on the creativity and inventiveness of the schemes.

smart moves

Highlights a practical intelligence and common sense behind someone's decisions.

FAQs

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

You can use "shrewd tactics" to describe clever and effective strategies employed to achieve a specific goal. For instance, "The company's success was attributed to its "shrewd tactics" in marketing and product development".

What are some alternatives to "shrewd tactics"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "clever tactics", "astute methods", or "skillful strategies".

Is it appropriate to use "shrewd tactics" in formal writing?

Yes, "shrewd tactics" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing strategic decision-making in business, politics, or other professional contexts.

What is the difference between "shrewd tactics" and "cunning maneuvers"?

"Shrewd tactics" generally refers to clever and effective strategies, while "cunning maneuvers" suggests a level of deception or trickery. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize cleverness or a more manipulative approach.