# guile

/ˈɡaɪɫ/ (US) · /ɡˈaɪl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/guile
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. cunning or deceit

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary

clever and dishonest behavior that people use to trick others.

For teachers: astuteness marked by cunning, artful deception, or duplicity. Uncountable in this abstract sense.

- The politician used all his guile to win the election without making any promises.
- The protagonist in the novel relies more on his native guile than on physical strength to navigate the treacherous royal court.

Usage: Usually functions as an uncountable noun; often paired with verbs like 'use', 'employ', or 'rely on'.

## Examples

- He used his guile to trick the other players.
- The politician was known for his guile, often using clever words to avoid answering difficult questions from the press.
- The protagonist's journey is defined by a shift from innocence to a sophisticated understanding of the guile required to navigate the treacherous social hierarchies of the court.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.