deftness with which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deftness with which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the skill or agility with which someone performs an action or task. Example: "The deftness with which she handled the negotiations impressed everyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Perhaps it has to do with the deftness with which Coldplay weave the electronics around their sound.

The Guardian - Music

Congress was undoubtedly aware that manufacturers of illegal liquor are notorious for the deftness with which they locate arcane spots for plying their trade.

Cornell University

We know what Ferguson is going to do: he's going to brazen it out, actually boasting about the deftness with which he misled his readers.

The New York Times

These offbeats rivet attention on the artist's improvisatory flair — the audacity of his unerring line, the summary deftness with which he handles light and shadow.

The New Yorker

But the real draws are Mr. Bezuidenhout's lively interpretive imagination and the deftness with which he uses the fortepiano's distinctive coloration to bring the music to life.

The New York Times - Arts

I have long admired the elder Bush for the deftness with which he dealt with the collapse of the Soviet empire.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

What is impressive about Mnemonic is not just the ideas: it is also the deftness and skill with which they are theatrically executed.

The Guardian

For another, he has taken Norwegians aback with the deftness by which he has pulled his trio of disparate parties together.

The Economist

The Gauss theory of refraction through a series of media bounded by spherical surfaces having the same optic axis admits of being handled with that deftness which is the most marked characteristic of the Cambridge mathematician, and which is here admirably exemplified.

Nature

Continued discombobulation at the shock of the new is all we can put that down to, and in fairness Guardian Gent went on to praise the Australian's "sinuous agility of a panther", his "nimbleness" and his "deftness of touch" which was made "with the delicacy of the true artist".

The Guardian - Sport

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 with which" to emphasize not just skill, but also the elegance and precision involved in performing an action. For example: "The deftness with which the surgeon performed the operation was remarkable."

Common error

While grammatically correct, "deftness with which" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. In informal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "skill in" or "how skillfully" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deftness with which" functions as an adverbial modifier, describing the manner in which an action is performed. It emphasizes the skill, precision, and elegance involved. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Arts

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deftness with which" is a grammatically sound and relatively common phrase used to emphasize the skill and precision involved in performing an action. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Arts contexts, it carries a neutral to slightly formal tone. While alternatives like "skill with which" exist, "deftness with which" adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. Remember to consider the context and audience when choosing this phrase to ensure it aligns with the overall tone and register of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skill with which

Replaces "deftness" with the more common synonym "skill", maintaining the same grammatical structure.

adroitness with which

Substitutes "deftness" with "adroitness", offering a slightly more formal tone.

facility with which

Replaces "deftness" with "facility", highlighting ease and competence.

ease with which

Focuses on the ease of performance rather than the skill itself.

expertise in

Shifts the focus to possessing expertise rather than demonstrating a specific skill.

proficiency in

Highlights the level of competence in a particular area.

finesse in

Emphasizes the delicate and refined nature of the skill.

mastery of

Suggests a high level of control and understanding.

competence in

Highlights the ability to perform tasks adequately and effectively.

aptitude for

Focuses on a natural inclination or talent.

FAQs

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

Use "deftness with which" to highlight the skillful and precise manner in which someone performs an action. For instance, "The deftness with which the negotiator resolved the conflict was impressive."

What are some alternatives to "deftness with which"?

You can use alternatives like "skill with which", "adroitness with which", or "facility with which" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "deftness with which" formal or informal?

"Deftness with which" leans towards the formal side. In more casual contexts, simpler alternatives like "skill in" or "how skillfully" might be more appropriate.

What does "deftness with which" emphasize?

"Deftness with which" emphasizes not only the skill involved but also the elegance, precision, and finesse in performing a task. It suggests a refined and sophisticated approach.