deftness in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deftness in" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe skillfulness or proficiency in a particular area or activity. Example: "Her deftness in handling complex negotiations impressed everyone." Alternative expressions include "skill in," "proficiency in," and "adeptness at."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

This points to Mr. Sprecher's deftness in piloting his company through periods of regulation, deregulation and now re-regulation.

The New York Times

Until now she has prospered by showing strength in foreign policy and deftness in managing the coalition's internal divisions.

The Economist

Mr. Kreidler's deftness in "Four Days" is in turning a niche sport into one as accessible as baseball or basketball.

The New York Times - Books

He admires Roosevelt's skill in managing the war effort and his deftness in handling the diplomacy that accompanied it.

The New York Times - Books

A good deal of Cameron phase one reflected the ex-prime minister's lightness of touch and deftness in argument.

The Guardian - Opinion

America has let it be known that, despite Mr Karzai's proven deftness in shirking tasks his foreign paymasters regard as essential, it is now prepared to get tough.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Although the American stay is likely to be shorter, it could generate the same kind of resentment if not handled with a deftness rare in the annals of triumphant armies.

The New York Times

Like its predecessors Goldheart and Blackheart, it offered a dazzling, genre-busting array of styles: it is hard to think of anyone else in pop who has managed the transition from reality-show star to critically revered, musically adventurous auteur with such deftness, but in truth it is hard to think of anyone else who has managed it.

The Guardian - Music

Mr Toibin's deftness and sensitivity in teasing out the moments in James's life where might-be slides into might-have-been are particularly memorable.The author also helps to cast new light on James's decision, conscious or otherwise, to eschew marriage and lovers in order to safeguard his art and the quiet he needed to be a writer.

The Economist

Mr Carney was all deftness and flexibility in front of the camera.

Independent

This part of the job requires political deftness, which Stevens, in his Lone Ranger mode, had not often displayed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deftness in" to specifically highlight a refined or subtle skill applied to a particular situation or task. This emphasizes not just the ability, but the manner in which it is executed.

Common error

Avoid using "deftness in" when simply referring to general competence. "Deftness" implies a finesse or grace that goes beyond basic skill. Ensure the context warrants the emphasis on subtlety and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deftness in" functions as a noun phrase, specifying the particular area where someone demonstrates skill. This usage is consistent with Ludwig's examples, which show it modifying subjects like a person's ability to manage situations or a writer's talent in creating narratives.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deftness in" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that highlights a specific skill or ability in a particular area. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, though most often found in news and media. When using "deftness in", ensure that the context emphasizes not only skill but also the refined, subtle, or graceful manner in which it is applied. Alternatives such as "skill in" or "expertise in" may be more appropriate when focusing on general competence rather than nuanced execution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skill in

Focuses more generally on competence or ability.

expertise in

Emphasizes specialized knowledge or mastery.

proficiency in

Highlights competence and advancement in a specific area.

adeptness at

Shifts the preposition and focuses on skillful performance.

mastery of

Suggests a high level of control and understanding.

talent for

Implies a natural aptitude or gift.

aptitude for

Suggests an inherent ability or inclination.

knack for

Indicates a natural and effortless skill.

adroitness in

Emphasizes cleverness and resourcefulness.

finesse in

Highlights grace and delicacy in handling something.

FAQs

How can I use "deftness in" in a sentence?

Use "deftness in" to describe a refined skill or subtle ability applied to a specific area. For example: "Her "deftness in" handling delicate negotiations was remarkable."

What are some alternatives to "deftness in"?

Alternatives include "skill in", "expertise in", or "proficiency in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "deftness in"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize not just the ability, but also the finesse and subtlety with which a task is performed. It suggests a refined or graceful skill.

Is there a difference between "deftness in" and "adroitness in"?

"Adroitness" implies cleverness and resourcefulness, while "deftness" focuses on a more refined, almost graceful skill. Both can be used to describe skill, but "deftness in" often suggests a higher degree of precision and elegance.