Maneuver Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
maneuver
[mษหnuห.vษr ]
Definitions
in military context
A movement or series of moves requiring skill and care, especially in a military context.
Synonyms
manipulation, strategy, tactic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maneuver |
In British English, 'maneuver' is spelled 'manoeuvre' but retains the same meanings.
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| tactic |
Use 'tactic' when talking about specific actions or steps taken to achieve a short-term goal within the broader context of a larger plan or strategy.
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| strategy |
Use 'strategy' when referring to a long-term plan designed to achieve a specific goal. It usually involves careful planning and consideration of many factors.
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| manipulation |
Use 'manipulation' when referring to controlling or influencing someone or something in a skillful but often unfair or dishonest way. It generally has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The army carried out a clever maneuver to outflank the enemy.
- The general planned a brilliant maneuver to surprise the enemy forces.
driving context
To move skilfully or carefully in a particular direction, especially while driving a vehicle.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maneuver |
Utilize when describing the skillful or careful movement of a vehicle, especially in complicated or tight spaces.
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| navigate |
Best suited for describing the act of planning and directing a route or course, especially on a journey or through a complex system.
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| steer |
Applies to the action of guiding or directing a vehicle or vessel, making sure it goes in the correct direction.
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| pilot |
Ideal for referring specifically to the act of controlling the flight of an aircraft, though it can also mean leading or guiding a project or process.
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Examples of usage
- The driver maneuvered the car smoothly through the narrow streets.
- She maneuvered her way through heavy traffic to reach the airport on time.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Military History
- In military strategies, maneuvers are planned movements of troops to gain an advantage over the enemy.
- Famous military generals, like Napoleon, were noted for their skilled maneuvers on the battlefield, often turning the tide of conflicts.
- Maneuvers can include feigning retreat to draw the enemy into a trap.
Psychology
- Maneuvering in social situations often involves navigating tricky conversations or negotiations with care.
- Cognitive maneuvering refers to how people adjust their thinking patterns to solve complex problems.
- Effective emotional maneuvering can help individuals manage their feelings and reactions in stressful scenarios.
Sports
- In sports, maneuvering refers to the skillful movements players make to outsmart opponents, like a quarterback dodging defenders.
- Gymnasts perform maneuvers that require precise body movements for routines, often scoring high for execution.
- Maneuvering in racing involves strategic driving to overtake competitors while navigating the track.
Everyday Life
- People maneuver their cars in tight spaces when parking, requiring skill and focus.
- Everyday tasks like cooking often involve maneuvering utensils around ingredients to create a meal.
- In dance, performers maneuver their bodies fluidly to express emotions through movement.
Origin of 'maneuver'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French term 'manoeuvre', which means a skillful movement.
- Its roots trace back to the Latin word 'manu operare', meaning 'to work by hand', emphasizing skill and deliberate action.
- Initially, the term was used in military contexts before expanding to various fields.
The word 'maneuver' originated from the French word 'manลuvre', which means 'manual work' or 'operation'. It first appeared in the English language in the 18th century, primarily used in military contexts to describe tactical movements. Over time, the term expanded to include skillful movements in various fields, such as driving and sports.
See also: maneuverability, maneuvered, maneuvering, maneuvers, outmaneuver.