Slickly: meaning, definitions and examples

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slickly

[ˈslɪkli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

adverb to describe smooth and efficient movement or action

In a smooth, efficient, or clever manner; with skill or finesse.

Synonyms

cleverly, efficiently, smoothly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slickly	Used when describing a task done with smoothness and polish, often suggesting a level of skill. It can sometimes imply a lack of sincerity, giving it a subtle negative connotation. He sold the product slickly, impressing everyone with his confidence. Everything in the presentation was handled slickly, leaving little room for criticism.
smoothly	Describes a process or action that proceeds without any bumps or interruptions. It highlights the absence of problems and is generally positive. The event ran smoothly, without any unexpected issues. Negotiations between the two companies went smoothly.
efficiently	Best used when describing a task completed in the best possible way with minimal waste of time and resources. It typically has a neutral to positive connotation. The team worked efficiently to meet the tight deadline. He efficiently managed his time to balance work and study.
cleverly	Appropriate when referring to a situation where intelligence and creativity are used to solve a problem or create something. It often carries a positive connotation. She cleverly figured out a way to reduce the production costs. The writer cleverly incorporated a plot twist that surprised everyone.

Examples of usage

He navigated the crowded room slickly, making his way to the exit without bumping into anyone.
The con artist slickly convinced the old man to hand over his life savings.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

adverb to describe something that is done in a way that is quick and clever, but often not honest

In a clever or cunning way, especially in a way that is not honest or fair.

Synonyms

cunningly, deviously, slyly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slickly	Used when describing something done smoothly and efficiently, often in a way that is impressive or skillful. This term generally carries a positive connotation, but can imply a lack of depth or sincerity. He slickly maneuvered through the crowded market The salesman slickly pitched his product, making it seem irresistible
cunningly	Appropriate when describing something done with skill and cleverness, often involving a lot of planning and deceit. The term has a somewhat negative connotation. She cunningly hid the treasure where no one thought to look He cunningly devised a plan to outsmart his opponent
slyly	Best used when describing actions done with a secretive or cunning manner, often with an element of playful trickery. It can carry both negative and playful connotations depending on the context. She smiled slyly when she revealed her surprise He slyly avoided answering the question directly
deviously	Used when describing actions taken in a deceitful, dishonest, and often sneaky way. This term has a strong negative connotation. They deviously plotted to take control of the company His deviously constructed lies eventually caught up with him

Examples of usage

The politician slickly avoided answering the question directly.
She slickly manipulated the situation to her advantage.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'slick' comes from the Old Norse word 'slicke,' meaning smooth or slippery.
Adding '-ly' to adjectives is a common way in English to create adverbs, indicating the manner in which an action is performed.
The use of 'slickly' suggests not just skill, but also a certain finesse or flashiness in execution.

Pop Culture

In the film industry, the term 'slick' is often used to describe a movie or a scene that is very well produced, with a polished look.
Musicians may describe their performances as 'slickly produced' when they use studio techniques to enhance sound and presentation.
Fashion and advertising often use 'slickly' to convey a sense of sophistication and smooth style that appeals to consumers.

Psychology

People often perceive actions done 'slickly' as more competent or credible, which might affect social interactions positively.
Psychological studies suggest that presentation matters; people are more likely to trust someone who presents information slickly compared to a rougher delivery.
The ‘halo effect’ suggests that if someone is slick in one area (like speech), we may assume they are competent in others, like decision-making.

Writing and Rhetoric

In writing, a slickly written piece is usually concise, engaging, and free of unnecessary clutter, ensuring reader interest.
Authors often aim for slickly crafted narratives to draw readers in quickly and maintain their attention throughout the story.
In rhetoric, delivering a slickly prepared speech can enhance persuasiveness, as it shows confidence and mastery over the subject.

Business

In business presentations, delivering information slickly can make a significant difference in the audience's engagement and retention.
Marketing strategies often focus on slickly designed advertisements to captivate potential customers and leave a lasting impression.
Companies that can present their ideas slickly often succeed in gaining investor confidence and securing funding.

Translations

Translations of the word "slickly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lisamente

🇮🇳 चिकनी

🇩🇪 glatt

🇮🇩 licin

🇺🇦 гладко

🇵🇱 gładko

🇯🇵 なめらかに

🇫🇷 lissement

🇪🇸 suavemente

🇹🇷 pürüzsüzce

🇰🇷 매끄럽게

🇸🇦 بسلاسة

🇨🇿 hladce

🇸🇰 hladko

🇨🇳 光滑地

🇸🇮 gladko

🇮🇸 slétt

🇰🇿 тегіс

🇬🇪 გლუვად

🇦🇿 hamar

🇲🇽 suavemente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,777, 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.

...
39774 hobbyhorse
39775 praline
39776 underachiever
39777 slickly
39778 spay
39779 unshapely
39780 knockoff
...