Artfulness: meaning, definitions and examples
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artfulness
[ ˈɑːrtfəl.nəs ]
skillful manipulation
Artfulness refers to the quality of being artful, which means being skilled in a particular craft or art. It often implies a certain level of cleverness or guile in achieving one's goals. This term can be used in contexts where someone has applied artistic skills or has outsmarted others with clever tactics.
Synonyms
cleverness, craftiness, ingenuity, skillfulness.
Examples of usage
- The artfulness of the painter was evident in every brushstroke.
- Her artfulness in negotiation won her the deal.
- The artfulness of the performance captivated the audience.
Etymology
The term 'artfulness' is derived from the word 'artful', which dates back to Middle English, specifically originating from the Old French word 'arteful', which means skillful or crafty. The root word 'art' stems from the Latin 'ars', meaning skill or craft. Over the centuries, the meaning of artfulness has evolved to not only encompass talent in artistic endeavors but also an element of cunning and cleverness in various contexts. This evolution highlights how language reflects the complexity of human skill and social interaction. In modern usage, artfulness often carries connotations beyond mere technical skill, incorporating the idea of strategic thinking and persuasion.