guile
What does "guile" mean?
Guile refers to sly or cunning intelligence used to achieve a goal, often through deception or craftiness. Imagine a fox in a fable; it doesn't use brute strength to get what it wants, but rather clever tricks and subtle manipulation to outsmart its opponents. In modern usage, it is frequently used to describe someone who is shrewd and calculating in business, politics, or social maneuvering. While it implies a lack of total honesty, it carries a sense of admiration for someone's mental agility and ability to navigate complex situations without being caught.
"guile" in conversation
Discussing a competitor
He managed to secure the deal right under our noses.
He managed to secure the deal right under our noses.
I know, he used a lot of guile to distract our team during the meeting.
I know, he used a lot of guile to distract our team during the meeting.
Used to describe a calculated, deceptive tactic.
Watching a thriller movie
I love how the protagonist wins with pure guile rather than a gun.
I love how the protagonist wins with pure guile rather than a gun.
Exactly, it makes the victory feel much more satisfying.
Exactly, it makes the victory feel much more satisfying.
Refers to intelligence as a positive, strategic trait.
"guile" in a sentence
She faced the challenge with great guile.
She faced the challenge with great guile.
The salesman used his guile to convince the customer to buy the expensive upgrade.
The salesman used his guile to convince the customer to buy the expensive upgrade.
It takes a significant amount of guile to navigate the treacherous waters of corporate politics without making enemies.
It takes a significant amount of guile to navigate the treacherous waters of corporate politics without making enemies.
