Translation guide
The English word 'shrewd' describes someone who is sharp, perceptive, and good at making judgments, especially in practical or business matters. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent. The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize cleverness, sharp intuition, worldly wisdom, or a slightly negative cunning.
Describing someone who is intelligent, quick to understand, and good at handling situations, especially in business or negotiations.
This is the closest general equivalent to 'shrewd'. It means sharp, alert, and not missing any opportunity. Often used for businesspeople or negotiators.
He is a shrewd businessman.
Through shrewd negotiation, they won the contract.
Means 'sharp' or 'keen'. When used for a person's mind or judgment, it conveys shrewdness in the sense of sharp perception.
She has a shrewd eye for detail.
Ask shrewd questions.
Means 'smart' or 'wise'. It can imply shrewdness when referring to practical intelligence, but it is a broader term for cleverness.
A shrewd investor diversifies risk.
Describing someone who can quickly grasp the essence of a situation or person, often with a sense of perceptiveness.
Describing someone who is cunning, calculating, or uses cleverness for self-interest, sometimes with a negative nuance.
Means 'sly' or 'cunning'. It has a negative connotation, implying shrewdness used for selfish or dishonest purposes.
That man is shrewd (in a cunning way), so be careful.
Means 'crafty' or 'underhanded'. It describes shrewdness that is morally questionable, often in business.
Describing someone who is astute and able to make good decisions, especially in managing resources or navigating complex situations.
抜け目ない is generally positive or neutral, meaning alert and not missing opportunities. ずる賢い is negative, implying cunning and slyness. Choose based on whether you want to praise or criticize.
Do not directly translate 'shrewd' as 狡猾 (こうかつ) in most contexts. 狡猾 is much stronger and means 'crafty' or 'wily', often with a very negative nuance. It is not a good default for 'shrewd'.
I'm always impressed by her shrewd insight.
あくどい手口で金を儲ける。
Make money through shrewd (underhanded) methods.
彼は社内でも有名な切れ者だ。
He is known in the company as a shrewd and sharp person.