1. Cunning and secretive: This is the most common meaning. A sly person is clever and deceptive, often using tricks or underhanded methods to get what they want. They may be good at hiding their true intentions and manipulating situations to their advantage.
Examples:
* "He gave her a sly wink."
* "The salesman used a sly trick to convince her to buy the product."
2. Crafty and mischievous: This meaning is similar to the first but can also imply a playful or humorous element. A sly person might be known for their pranks or clever jokes.
Examples:
* "She had a sly smile on her face."
* "He made a sly remark about her new haircut."
3. Skillful and cunning (in a positive sense): This meaning is less common and often used in more archaic or poetic contexts. It can describe someone who is adept at using their intelligence and skill to achieve a goal, often in a way that is impressive or clever.
Examples:
* "He was a sly hunter, able to track his prey with ease."
* "She had a sly wit that could disarm anyone."
It's important to consider the context when interpreting the word "sly" as its meaning can vary depending on the situation.