Dexterously
adv.capable, energeticprofessional
What it means
With precise, easy control of the hands, body, or mind.
Reach for it when describing skillful handling where coordination is clearly visible
The conservator dexterously threaded new silk beneath the torn edge.
Choose between these
5- everyday
when speed and easy movement are most visible
not when Nimble handling may sacrifice the accuracy implied by dexterously.
- everyday
when broad competence is sufficient
not when Skill can come from knowledge or strength without fine coordination.
- warm
when one light, economical action deserves praise
not when Deftly often describes a quick move rather than sustained control.
- professional
when exact placement is the verifiable quality
not when Precision can be slow and mechanical rather than fluidly dexterous.
- formal
adroitly
when clever management of a social or mental difficulty is central
not when Adroitly sounds elevated and is less specifically physical.
Said against
3- clumsily
- awkwardly
- ineptly
It naturally appears in
3- dexterously handled
The disputed question was dexterously handled without evasion.
- dexterously moved
She dexterously moved the tiny pieces with bamboo tweezers.
- dexterously woven
Gold thread was dexterously woven through the dark border.
The word family
1Where this comes from
- Wiktionary, English adverb: in a dexterous manner opens in a new tab · retrieved 2026-07-26
The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.