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Finesse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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finesse

[fɪˈnɛs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

Extremely skilled and well-executed performance or technique.

Synonyms

artistry, expertise, skill.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
finesse

When you want to emphasize delicate, subtle, and skillful handling of a situation or task.

  • She handled the negotiation with great finesse.
  • He played the piano piece with finesse.
skill

A general term for the ability to do something well, often through practice or training, and can apply to various fields.

  • He has a lot of skill in playing basketball.
  • She improved her writing skills with time and practice.
expertise

Used to describe a high level of knowledge or skill in a particular area, often professional or technical.

  • We need your expertise in software development for this project.
  • Her expertise in financial management is well respected.
artistry

This word is suited for situations where there is a focus on creative skill or craftsmanship, particularly in the arts.

  • Her artistry in painting is truly remarkable.
  • The chef's culinary artistry made the meal unforgettable.

Examples of usage

  • The pianist played the piece with finesse and grace.
  • Her finesse on the violin captivated the audience.
Context #2 | Verb

social interactions

Handle or deal with a situation with subtle skill and tact.

Synonyms

handle, maneuver, negotiate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
finesse

Finesse is best used when dealing with delicate situations that require careful and skillful handling. Often, it implies tact and subtlety.

  • She had the finesse to calm the heated argument without offending anyone
  • The musician played the complex piece with impressive finesse
maneuver

Maneuver is appropriate in situations requiring skillful or strategic movements, often in physical spaces or complex scenarios. It suggests a degree of complexity or challenge.

  • The driver had to maneuver through the narrow streets
  • She maneuvered her way to the top of the company
handle

Handle is used for general situations requiring management or dealing with something. It implies being able to control or manage a situation, problem, or responsibility efficiently.

  • Can you handle the new project? He handled the crisis very well
negotiate

Negotiate is suited for situations involving discussions or bargaining to reach an agreement, often between parties with different interests. This term is commonly used in business, diplomacy, and conflict resolution.

  • They negotiated a better salary
  • The countries are negotiating a peace treaty

Examples of usage

  • She finessed her way through the difficult conversation.
  • He always knows how to finesse any awkward encounter.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Music

  • In music, finesse can refer to the subtle dynamics a musician uses to create emotional depth.
  • Visual artists often exhibit finesse in their techniques, making brush strokes or sculpting details look effortless.
  • The concept of 'finesse' is appreciated in dance, where high-level performance showcases precision and fluidity.

Sports

  • In sports like gymnastics and figure skating, finesse is crucial, where athletes must perform complex movements with grace.
  • Finesse in sports also refers to the strategic execution of plays that require careful thought and precision.
  • Football skills such as dribbling require finesse, as players navigate the ball with intricate footwork.

Psychology

  • People often use finesse in social interactions, using charm and subtlety to influence others positively.
  • The ability to navigate tricky emotional situations with finesse can lead to better relationships and communication.
  • Skillful negotiation often relies heavily on finesse, requiring the negotiator to be tactful and persuasive.

Personal Development

  • Finesse is a trait that can be developed through practice and mindful attention to detail in tasks.
  • Cultivating finesse in communication can enhance one's professional and personal life by improving understanding.
  • Practicing finesse in decision-making involves weighing options carefully to achieve the best outcome.

Origin of 'finesse'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French term 'finesse,' which referred to the quality of being fine or delicate.
  • In medieval times, it was used to describe both physical delicacy and cleverness in behavior.
  • The root 'fine' indicates both quality and excellence, reflecting the notion of doing something with precision.

The word 'finesse' originated in the 15th century from Middle English 'finesse' and Old French 'finesse', meaning finesse or subtlety. It has been used over the centuries to describe a high level of skill and artistry in various fields, from music to social interactions.

See also: fine, finely, fines, finest.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,482, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.