(as) cunning / sly as a fox

/az kˈʌnɪŋ slˈaɪ az ɐ fˈɒks/

/æz kˈʌnɪŋ slˈaɪ æz ɐ fˈɑːks/

[phrase]

[PHRASE]

used to refer to someone who tends to achieve things in a clever way, particularly by deceiving other people

(as|) (cunning|sly) as a fox definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "cunning as a fox" and when to use it?

The idiom "cunning as a fox" dates back to ancient times, where foxes were often associated with cleverness and craftiness in various cultures, including Greek, Roman, and Native American folklore. This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely clever, sly, or shrewd in their actions or decisions.

Examples

1. If you study hard and use your intelligence wisely, you'll become cunning as a fox and excel in your career.

2. But as I mentioned earlier, Reeves was not just about fists and bullets, he could be sly as a fox.

3. Despite being around 25 years old, Olga had a Varangian spirit, iron-willed and cunning as a fox.

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