1610s, "learned, well-versed in the (liberal) arts," also "characterized by technical skill," from art (n.) + -ful. Meaning "skilled in adapting means to ends" is from 1739. Related: Artfully; artfulness.
权威例句
1. Despite some artful editing, the anthology is a weak one.
除了编辑上的一些巧妙之处,这本选集乏善可陈。
2. There is also an artful contrast of shapes.
形状的对比也很巧妙。
3. That man used artful means to find out secrets.
那人使用狡猾的手段获取机密.
4. A weathercock and an artful person, he spoke a lot of beautiful words to please people.
他这个人,见风使舵,八面玲珑,说了不少使大家高兴的话.
5. Some politicians have realised that there are more artful ways of subduing people than shooting or jailing them.