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deft

Q: How is the word 'deft' different from other adjectives like it?

The words adroit and dexterous are common synonyms of deft . While all three words mean "ready and skilled in physical movement," deft emphasizes lightness, neatness, and sureness of touch or handling. // a surgeon's deft manipulation of the scalpel

Q: When is it sensible to use 'adroit' instead of 'deft'?

The words adroit and deft are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, adroit implies dexterity but usually also stresses resourcefulness or artfulness or inventiveness. // the magician's adroit response to the failure of her prop won applause

Q: In what contexts can 'dexterous' take the place of 'deft'?

In some situations, the words dexterous and deft are roughly equivalent. However, dexterous implies expertness with consequent facility and quickness in manipulation. // unrolled the sleeping bag with a dexterous toss

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Synonyms & Antonyms of deft

1 accomplished with trained ability

a luthier whose deft craftsmanship is prized by violinists the world over

Synonyms for deft

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Antonyms for deft

2 skillful with the hands

the deft jeweler quickly attached the diamond to its mount on the gold band

Synonyms for deft

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coordinated

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uncoordinated

Antonyms for deft

Frequently Asked Questions About deft

How is the word deft different from other adjectives like it?

The words adroit and dexterous are common synonyms of deft. While all three words mean "ready and skilled in physical movement," deft emphasizes lightness, neatness, and sureness of touch or handling.

a surgeon's deft manipulation of the scalpel

When is it sensible to use adroit instead of deft?

The words adroit and deft are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, adroit implies dexterity but usually also stresses resourcefulness or artfulness or inventiveness.

the magician's adroit response to the failure of her prop won applause

In what contexts can dexterous take the place of deft?

In some situations, the words dexterous and deft are roughly equivalent. However, dexterous implies expertness with consequent facility and quickness in manipulation.

unrolled the sleeping bag with a dexterous toss