1. Skillful and Clever: This is the most common meaning. It describes someone who is good at using their intelligence and skills to achieve something, especially in a sneaky or cunning way.
* Example: "The crafty detective was able to solve the case by noticing small details others had overlooked."
2. Skillful in Making Things: This meaning refers to someone who is good at creating things with their hands, particularly with materials like wood, fabric, or paper. It can also describe a skill in creating something deceitful or deceptive.
* Example: "She's a crafty artist who creates beautiful sculptures from recycled materials."
* Example: "The salesman was crafty, using persuasive language to trick customers into buying unnecessary products."
3. Deceitful and Shrewd: This meaning describes someone who is cunning and manipulative, often using tricks or lies to get what they want.
* Example: "The crafty politician used misinformation to sway voters."
In summary:
* Positive connotation: Skillful, clever, resourceful, inventive
* Negative connotation: Deceitful, cunning, manipulative, tricky
The specific meaning of "crafty" will depend on the context in which it is used.