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Definitions

deftly

[deft-lee] / ˈdɛft li /
ADVERB
cleverly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ably adroitly aptly expertly handily ingeniously neatly nimbly skillfully smoothly
WEAK
agilely cunningly dexterously facilely glibly proficiently quickly readily resourcefully
Antonyms
WEAK
awkwardly clumsily unskillfully
ADVERB
delicately
Synonyms
STRONGEST
beautifully cautiously elegantly exquisitely finely gracefully lightly sensitively skillfully softly subtly tactfully
WEAK
daintily fastidiously precisely
Antonyms
WEAK
indelicately strongly uncarefully
ADVERB
shrewdly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ably adroitly artfully carefully cleverly coolly deliberately intelligently judiciously keenly knowingly skillfully slyly smartly
STRONG
sagaciously
WEAK
cunningly deceptively facilely foxily guilefully perspicaciously trickily

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He is an able guide, piloting us deftly through the economic and cultural intricacies of a half-dozen societies in language that is mostly brisk and well-paced.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

They keep a disciplined, grueling schedule, turning out polished, deftly produced episodes 52 weeks a year.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Nguyen deftly crafts a poignant and contemplative snapshot of these seven bonded men who are caught between several masters in the creation of “Arirang.”

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

Takaichi deftly handled a March 19 White House visit.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

Woolf hustled him deftly; having begun his career booting horses through walk-up match races in Indian country, he knew how to hit the gas on a horse.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand