ENGLISH
REFERENCE

deftly

adv.
C1 Advanced US //ˈdɛftɫi// UK //dˈɛftli// deft·ly

adv. to do something with great skill and care. You use this when someone handles a difficult situation or a delicate object without making a mistake.

adv. in a manner that shows great skill, dexterity, or tact. Often describes the handling of physical objects or the management of complex social or emotional situations.


SIMPLE

She deftly handled the delicate glassware without breaking anything.

CONTEXTUAL

The diplomat deftly navigated the tense conversation, ensuring that no one felt slighted by the final agreement.

COMPLEX

The surgeon deftly maneuvered the instruments through the narrow space, demonstrating a level of precision that only years of practice could provide.

Synonyms
Origin

From deft + -ly.

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