French word

finesse

Pronunciation

IPA/finɛs/

Meaning

  • feminine nounfinesse

Example

Il a résolu le problème avec finesse.

He solved the problem with finesse.

Illustration for finesse (finesse)

More examples

Le jeune avocat a gagné le procès grâce à sa finesse.

The young lawyer won the trial through his finesse.

Core concept

A delicate adjustment that solves a problem by noticing what a blunt approach would miss.

Common phrases

  • faire preuve de finesse

    demonstrate finesse

  • gagner par la finesse

    win through finesse

Similar words

subtilité: A keen awareness of subtle distinctions and details.
tact: Diplomatic judgment that avoids hurting others' feelings.
habileté: Practical skill in carrying out tasks effectively.
adresse: Nimble control of the hands and body when handling things.

Definition in French

Manière habile et précise d'agir, fondée sur la subtilité et le sens des nuances.

Word origin

The noun was formed in Old French from fin, meaning refined or subtle, with -esse, a suffix that forms abstract nouns; Italian finezza is a related word.

Usage tips

  • French commonly uses finesse with avec, as in agir avec finesse, while faire preuve de finesse means to show this quality.

Other meanings

  • delicacynoun
  • subtletynoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word