Question

Which sentence carries a negative connotation?

A. he was a capable businessman.
B. he was a cunning businessman.
C. he was an intelligent businessman.
D. he was a bright businessman.

Answer 1

B. Cunning is often associated with questionable, even malicious, intent

Answer 2

The sentence (B) he was a cunning businessman carries a negative connotation.

In this sentence, cunning means shrewd or clever which implies that the businessman has negative qualities.