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finesse

Noun

IPA /fɪˈnes/

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Meaning in plain English

Great skill in handling a delicate situation carefully and tactfully.

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Pronunciation

finesse/fɪˈnes/

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A disagreement involves delicate feelings
A mediator handles it with tact and skill
The people reach an understanding

Handling a delicate disagreement with finesse takes skill and sensitivity.

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Examples in context

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She handled the awkward seating arrangements with finesse.
The negotiator showed finesse in finding a solution both teams accepted.

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She handled the awkward seating arrangements with ________.

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finesse — Great skill in handling a delicate situation carefully and tactfully.

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Great skill in handling a delicate situation carefully and tactfully.

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Word origin

Borrowed from French finesse, related to fine, meaning of high quality.

Did you know?

With finesse is a common way to describe skilful handling.

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