deft with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deft with" is a grammatically correct and commonly used part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone's skill or proficiency in a particular area or task. Example: She was always deft with a paintbrush, creating beautiful and intricate designs on her canvases.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

He was deft with technology and his hands.

The New York Times

Wambach is big and fearless and deft with her head.

The New York Times - Sports

His original compositions are songlike but often slyly episodic and always deft with groove.

The New York Times - Arts

Unless you're very deft with your pans, don't try cooking more than one at a time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He was the classic beefy-handed butcher who's incredibly deft with a knife.

The New York Times - Arts

He was so deft with his brush that Archibald Robertson took him in & gave him a few lessons.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

She populates her exacting free verse with deft classical allusion, with food, with nature, with fellow human beings and with abject majesty.

The New York Times - Books

Maryland, a collection of old souls, mixed wisdom with elbows, deft shooting with determined defense, and is the team to beat in the N.C.A.A. tournament.

The New York Times - Sports

The fry cook shows a deft touch with jalea ($15), heaped with squid, shrimp and corvina.

The New York Times - Food

Her homemade pappardelle with a wild boar ragù shows her deft hand with pasta.

The New York Times - Food

Edge noted Mikengreg's deft ability with simple sound effects, citing their previous work with Solipskier.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deft with" to highlight someone's skillful handling or execution of a task, especially when it involves finesse or precision.

Common error

Avoid using "deft with" in situations where simple competence is sufficient. The phrase implies a degree of grace or artistry, so use it when that nuance is relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deft with" functions as an adjectival modifier, describing someone's level of skill or expertise when handling a particular tool, concept, or situation. As noted by Ludwig, it signifies proficiency and competence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deft with" is a grammatically sound and common expression used to describe someone's skill or proficiency in handling a particular task or tool. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's typically used to highlight competence and ease. Occurring most frequently in News & Media, its usage suggests a neutral to slightly formal register. When seeking alternatives, consider "skilled in", "proficient in", or "adept at", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use "deft with" when the context calls for emphasizing finesse or artistry, and avoid it when simple competence is sufficient.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skilled in

Focuses on possessing skill as an attribute rather than demonstrating dexterity.

proficient in

Emphasizes competence and mastery of a skill.

adept at

Highlights natural talent or acquired skill in a specific area.

expert in

Suggests a high level of knowledge and skill.

talented in

Focuses on innate ability or natural gift.

capable in

Indicates having the ability or qualities necessary to do something.

competent in

Emphasizes being adequately qualified or capable.

accomplished in

Highlights a high degree of skill achieved through practice.

masterful in

Implies exceptional skill and control.

having a knack for

Suggests a natural aptitude or inherent talent.

FAQs

How can I use "deft with" in a sentence?

Use "deft with" to describe someone's skillful or proficient handling of something. For example, "She is "skilled in" negotiation, and very "adept at" closing deals."

What are some alternatives to "deft with"?

Alternatives include ""skilled in"", "proficient in", ""adept at"", or "expert in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "deft at" or "deft with"?

While both are grammatically acceptable, "deft with" typically implies handling something tangible or a specific skill, whereas ""adept at"" can be used more broadly.

What does it mean to be "deft with" something?

To be "deft with" something means to be skillful and quick in your movements or actions, particularly when handling something delicate or requiring precision. It suggests a natural ease and competence.