linguistic dexterity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone's ability to use language skillfully and with great range and variety in their expression. For example: His linguistic dexterity made the presentation especially engaging, as he drew from a deep well of vocabulary and rhetorical devices.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Her quirky humor and linguistic dexterity may remind you of Lorrie Moore with a BBC accent.

The New York Times - Books

Miranda saw Hamilton's relentlessness, brilliance, linguistic dexterity, and self-destructive stubbornness through his own idiosyncratic lens.

The New Yorker

But Ms. McKean, the lexicographer, evinced delight at the linguistic dexterity required to lard face creams with the sheen of popular science.

The New York Times

And he fulminates over the stove as the coffee bubbles up into his little Italian coffee maker, railing against the abstract wordsmiths whose linguistic dexterity mask soulless writing.

The New York Times

Ironically the people most hurt by his linguistic dexterity are people who really should have known better than to believe him at all.

The Guardian - Opinion

Instead of smug professorial wit, or Minchin-esque linguistic dexterity, the blade is hidden under an innocent face and the slurred, honest delivery of a common man.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

A Shiva-like linguistic multi-dexterity was indeed a defining trait of the Indian nationalism that put an end to the British Raj in 1947.

Los Angeles Times

IBM says this will have real value that Watson possesses such linguistic and computational dexterity that it is likely to lead to useful tools in a wide variety of fields.

MIT Technology Review

But the lessons learned are good ones, and it's hard to quibble with a story that brings together a tween in a mustard shirt and one with magenta hair to play a board game that promotes mental dexterity and linguistic ballet.

The New York Times - Books

Maria developed this dexterity from years of language brokering in situations that demanded a linguistic flexibility and versatility that few "English Only" students have the opportunity to experience.

Huffington Post

Critics praised his dexterity.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ this phrase when emphasizing someone's ability to manipulate language for rhetorical or artistic effect.

Common error

Avoid using "linguistic dexterity" to describe general intelligence or problem-solving skills that aren't directly related to language use. This phrase specifically denotes skill in using language, not overall mental capacity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "linguistic dexterity" functions as a noun phrase describing a specific attribute or skill. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, highlighting someone's skill in using language. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "linguistic dexterity" is a well-established phrase used to describe exceptional skill and finesse in language use. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and appropriate for formal and informal contexts. While alternatives like "verbal fluency" and "articulateness" exist, "linguistic dexterity" specifically highlights the skillful manipulation of language. It's commonly found in News & Media and academic sources, emphasizing its relevance in both journalistic and scholarly discourse. To effectively use "linguistic dexterity", focus on describing someone's ability to use language creatively and precisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

linguistic proficiency

Refers to competence and skill in using language effectively.

mastery of language

Stresses comprehensive control and skill in using language.

command of language

Implies authority and control over linguistic expression.

verbal fluency

Focuses on the ease and speed of speaking, rather than the skill in language use.

facility with words

Emphasizes natural ease and aptitude in using language.

articulateness

Highlights the ability to express oneself clearly and effectively.

gift for language

Suggests an innate talent or natural predisposition.

aptitude for language

Highlights a natural ability or talent for learning and using languages.

eloquence

Emphasizes the quality of being persuasive and well-spoken.

skill in rhetoric

Highlights the ability to use language effectively to persuade or impress.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "linguistic dexterity" in a sentence?

Use "linguistic dexterity" to describe someone who demonstrates exceptional skill and finesse in using language. For example, "The author's "linguistic dexterity" allowed him to craft compelling narratives with ease".

What are some alternatives to "linguistic dexterity"?

Alternatives include "verbal fluency", "articulateness", or "eloquence", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "linguistic dexterity" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "linguistic dexterity" is suitable for formal writing as it is a precise and sophisticated term found in academic and professional contexts.

What distinguishes "linguistic dexterity" from "linguistic ability"?

"Linguistic ability" is a broader term, while "linguistic dexterity" implies a higher level of skill and finesse in using language, showcasing more than just basic "linguistic proficiency".