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astuto

cunning

adjective ahs-TOO-toh Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Personality

Origin: From Latin astutus, 'clever, crafty'.

Also means

shrewd

Usage Note

Astuto describes someone who is clever in a strategic, calculating way — often with a hint that they use their wits for personal advantage. It can be neutral-to-positive (una negociadora astuta, a shrewd negotiator) or slightly negative, implying craftiness. The adverb astutamente and noun astucia come from the same root. Do not confuse with listo (smart, quick) or inteligente (intelligent), which lack the strategic cunning nuance.

Examples

"El zorro es conocido por ser muy astuto."

Natural Translation

The fox is known for being very cunning.

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