por astúcia / com astúcia
1. through the use of clever, deceitful, or strategic methods rather than force or honesty
He managed to win the game by cunning rather than by skill.
Ele conseguiu vencer o jogo por astúcia em vez de pela habilidade.
2. by employing intelligence and shrewdness, often with an element of deception
She obtained the information by cunning and careful manipulation.
Ela obteve a informação por astúcia e manipulação cuidadosa.
3. through sly or crafty tactics rather than direct means
The fox escaped by cunning.
A raposa escapou por astúcia.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, 'by cunning' often carries negative connotations when used to describe unethical behavior, though it can also be admired in competitive contexts (sports, business). In Brazilian Portuguese, 'jogo de cintura' (literally 'hip game') is a colloquial equivalent emphasizing clever maneuvering. The phrase reflects cultural values around intelligence and strategic thinking, though direct honesty is generally preferred in formal contexts.
NYC Slang
on some slick ish / by game
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