Finesse Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈfɪnɛs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A high level of skill, elegance, or refinement in performance, execution, or style.

Examples

• The chef added a touch of finesse to the dish with the intricate garnish.
• Her performance of the piano concerto showcased her exceptional finesse.
• The artist’s brushstrokes demonstrated a masterful finesse.
• The pilot landed the plane with perfect finesse, earning applause from the passengers.
• The designer’s finesse in selecting the materials resulted in a beautiful and functional product.

Synonyms

• Skill
• Elegance
• Refinement

Antonyms

• Roughness
• Harshness
• Coarseness

Additional Information

Finesse is often associated with a high level of expertise or proficiency in a particular field or activity. It can also refer to a subtle or delicate touch in execution or expression. In art, architecture, or design, finesse can mean a sense of proportion, balance, and subtlety.

Finesse is closely related to the concept of nuance, as it implies a high degree of precision and control. It is often used to describe a performance, execution, or style that is characterized by a high level of skill, elegance, and refinement.

Etymology

The word “finesse” comes from the French word “finesse,” meaning “tenderness” or “daintiness.” It was borrowed into Middle English as “finesse,” and has since been used to describe a high level of skill, elegance, or refinement.

Usage Notes

Finesse is often used to describe a performance, execution, or style that is characterized by a high level of skill, elegance, and refinement. It can be used to describe a wide range of activities, including art, architecture, design, music, dance, and sports.

Cultural References

Finesse has been used to describe the performance of various artists and professionals, including musicians, actors, and athletes. In literature, finesse is often used to describe a character’s skill or expertise in a particular field or activity.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

None

Related Words or Phrases

• Skill
• Elegance
• Refinement
• Nuance
• Wizardry
• Flair

Collocations

• Finesse and skill
• Finesse and elegance
• Finesse and refinement

Frequency of Use

Finesse is a relatively rare word in modern language, but it is often used in formal or professional contexts to describe a high level of skill, elegance, or refinement.

Common Misspellings

• Finnes
• Finess
• Finness