can
auxiliary verb
to be able to; have the ability, power, or skill to.
were cunning
-
past progressiveof can.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Under the smooth, suave lacquered surfaces were cunning contrivances to increase safety.
From Time Magazine Archive
There were cunning steps cut into the slope all the way down and set with flat stones.
From "Miracles on Maple Hill" by Virginia Sorensen
The little creatures were cunning and hard to catch, but their meat was tender and rank.
From "The Amber Spyglass" by Philip Pullman
Thick in his head he might be, but his hands were cunning.
From "Tiger, Tiger" by Lynne Reid Banks
Lions were regal and courageous; peacocks were proud; ants were industrious; foxes were cunning.
From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton
