Definition of sly

slyadjective

Sly

/slaɪ//slaɪ/

The word "sly" has a fascinating origin. It comes from the Old English word "slīc", which means "clever" or "astute". This word is thought to be related to the Proto-Germanic word "*slukiz", which carried a sense of "quick" or "agile". The connotation of "sly" shifting to mean "insidious" or "cunning" likely arose from the idea that someone who is quick-witted or clever might also be able to deceive or manipulate others. Over time, the word "sly" evolved to encompass its modern meanings, including "cunning", "wily", and "insidious". Despite its evolution, the word "sly" still retains its root connection to the idea of being clever or quick.

namespace

acting or done in a secret or dishonest way, often intending to trick people

hành động hoặc thực hiện một cách bí mật hoặc không trung thực, thường có ý định lừa gạt mọi người

Example:
  • a sly political move

    một động thái chính trị ranh mãnh

  • You sly old devil! How long have you known?

    Đồ quỷ già ranh mãnh! Có bao lâu mà bạn biết?

  • She’s a sly one—never lets on what she’s thinking.

    Cô ấy là một người ranh mãnh—không bao giờ bộc lộ những gì mình đang nghĩ.

Related words and phrases

suggesting that you know something secret that other people do not know

gợi ý rằng bạn biết điều gì đó bí mật mà người khác không biết

Example:
  • a sly smile/grin

    một nụ cười/ nụ cười ranh mãnh

Related words and phrases

Related words and phrases

Idioms

(more than) your fair share of something
(more than) an amount of something that is considered to be reasonable or acceptable
  • He has more than his fair share of problems.
  • I've had my fair share of success in the past.
    • the lion’s share (of something)
    the largest or best part of something when it is divided
    a share/slice of the cake
    a share of the available money or benefits that you believe you have a right to
  • Scotland is demanding a larger share of the national cake.