Finessing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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finessing

[fษชหˆnษ›sษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

manipulation skill

Finessing refers to the act of handling a situation with delicacy or skill. It often implies a degree of cunning or cleverness in navigating difficult circumstances or in achieving an outcome through subtlety.

Synonyms

artfulness, handling, maneuvering, tact.

Examples of usage

  • She finessed the negotiation to get the best deal.
  • He was able to finesse his way through the tricky conversation.
  • They finessed the project details to meet the tight deadline.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Finessing a situation often requires emotional intelligence, allowing one to read people and respond appropriately.
  • Cognitive flexibility plays a crucial role, as individuals must adapt their strategies based on the context.
  • People who can navigate complex social situations effectively tend to have better relationships.

Business

  • In negotiations, finessing can lead to better outcomes by strategically addressing the needs of all parties involved.
  • Leaders often use finesse to inspire teams, creating a cooperative atmosphere and resolving conflicts.
  • Finessing isn't just about charm; it's about leveraging knowledge and insights for effective decision-making.

Art and Culture

  • Artists often finesse their techniques to create more impactful works, showcasing skillful brushwork and composition.
  • Improvisation in music involves finessing; musicians adapt and respond to live interactions in performances.
  • In dance, finessing refers to the graceful execution of complex movements that captivate audiences.

Sports

  • Athletes use finesse to maneuver around opponents, emphasizing skill and technique over sheer physicality.
  • In sports like golf, finesse is crucial for precise shots and strategic plays, showcasing control and patience.
  • Players known for their finesse often have a unique style that sets them apart, making the game more enjoyable.

Origin of 'finessing'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the French word 'finesse', meaning 'refinement' or 'subtlety'.
  • Initially used in the 17th century, it described delicate or skillful actions.

The term 'finesse' originates from the French word 'finesse', meaning 'subtlety' or 'refinement'. It was derived from the Latin word 'finis', meaning 'end' or 'limit', reflecting the idea of achieving an end through delicate means. The word began to be used in English in the mid-17th century, initially relating to the quality of being fine or subtle in a general sense. Over time, 'finesse' evolved to encompass the idea of skillfully managing or maneuvering situations to achieve favorable results, particularly in contexts involving social interaction or negotiation. The verb form 'finessing' likely developed in the 20th century, taking on the connotation of tactful manipulation or clever handling in various situations.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,573, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.