noun
- plural of canniness; the quality of being shrewd, careful, and cautious in judgment or action
Usage: chiefly Scottish and Northern English; often used to describe practical wisdom or prudent behavior
Examples
- The old farmer's canninesses in managing his land had made him prosperous.
- Her canninesses about trusting strangers kept her safe.
- The merchant's canninesses in business dealings earned him respect.
- Scottish canninesses and thriftiness are well-known cultural traits.
- He approached the negotiation with the canninesses of an experienced diplomat.