# maneuvering

/məˈnuvɝɪŋ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/maneuvering
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. physical movement

noun · CEFR B2 · American English

the act of moving something carefully or with skill, especially in a tight space.

For teachers: the physical act of directing or manipulating the movement of an object or vehicle with precision.

- The driver needed some careful maneuvering to get the truck into the narrow garage.
- The pilot's skillful maneuvering of the aircraft during the storm prevented what could have been a catastrophic landing.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable gerund-noun describing the process of movement.

### 2. clever strategy

noun · CEFR C1 · American English · Formal

using clever or dishonest plans to gain an advantage over others.

For teachers: strategic or tactical movement in a social, political, or professional context, often involving intrigue or manipulation.

- After months of political maneuvering, she was finally elected as the new leader.
- The CEO's clever maneuvering behind the scenes ensured that the merger was approved despite significant opposition from the board.

Usage: Frequently appears in political and business contexts to describe indirect actions.

## Examples

- The driver needed careful maneuvering to park in the tight space.
- After weeks of political maneuvering, the senator finally secured enough votes to pass the new environmental bill.
- The captain's expert maneuvering of the vessel through the narrow, fog-shrouded channel prevented a potentially disastrous collision with the jagged rocks near the shoreline.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.