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Manoeuvre Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manoeuvre

[məˈnuː.vər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military tactic

A manoeuvre refers to a movement or action that involves skill and careful planning, often used in a military or strategic context. It can involve the movement of troops, vehicles, or fleets to achieve a specific objective. The term can also imply a clever or skillful action taken to evade an obstacle or challenge.

Synonyms

maneuver, operation, strategy, tactic.

Examples of usage

  • The general ordered a strategic manoeuvre to outflank the enemy.
  • The manoeuvre of the ships was executed flawlessly during the naval exercise.
  • In chess, a brilliant manoeuvre can lead to a checkmate.
Context #2 | Verb

skillful guidance

To manoeuvre means to move or guide something skillfully in a desired direction. This term can apply to various scenarios, from navigating a vehicle to carefully handling a situation in conversation. It implies a degree of control and strategic thinking to achieve a desired outcome.

Synonyms

guide, maneuver, navigate, steer.

Examples of usage

  • She had to manoeuvre the car through the narrow street.
  • He manoeuvred the discussion towards a more favorable outcome.
  • The athlete expertly manoeuvred around his opponents.

Translations

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

Origin of 'manoeuvre'

The word 'manoeuvre' has its origins in the French word 'manoeuvre', which derives from the Latin 'manu operare', meaning 'to work by hand'. This Latin phrase is composed of 'manu', meaning 'by hand', and 'operare', meaning 'to operate or to work'. The transition of the term into English occurred during the 17th century, initially referring to military movements and tactics. Over time, its usage expanded to encompass various forms of skillful movement or manipulation in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Today, 'manoeuvre' can be used to describe anything from physical actions to clever strategies in discussions or negotiations.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,350, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.