DEFT Synonyms: 84 Similar and Opposite Words

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

deft

adjective

ˈdeft

Definition of deft next

as in virtuoso

accomplished with trained ability a luthier whose deft craftsmanship is prized by violinists the world over

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in dextrous

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

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

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of deft Under the deft hand of Bill Lumsden, head of distilling and whisky creation, the distillery is known for innovative whisky-making. —

Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024 That change-up does work, though, as a deft musical nod to Moana’s evolution from spunky sailor wannabe and rebellious daughter to rookie boat captain and beloved big sister. —

Brian Truitt, USA TODAY, 26 Nov. 2024 Justifying a rate cut in that environment will require some deft communication from Chair Jerome Powell and the committee. —

Jeff Cox, CNBC, 17 Dec. 2024 Each has been designed with a deft eye toward proportionality within the 36mm rose gold case. —

Blake Buettner, Robb Report, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for deft

Recent Examples of Synonyms for deft

Adjective

Success will require new paradigms for U.S. trade policy and skillful diplomacy, as foreign leaders guard their own national interests.

Peter E. Harrell, Foreign Affairs, 19 Dec. 2024
Parents know how skillful our teens can be when making the case against our rules or leadership, so this may come as a surprise.

Alison Escalante, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024