What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dexterous
Example
The surgeon's dexterous hands allowed her to perform the delicate operation with ease. [dexterous: adjective]
Example
He showed his dexterity by juggling three balls at once. [dexterity: noun]
nimble
Example
The gymnast's nimble movements impressed the judges. [nimble: adjective]
Example
She navigated the crowded street with nimble steps. [nimble: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nimble is more commonly used than dexterous in everyday language. Nimble is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dexterous is less common and refers to a specific type of manual skill.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dexterous and nimble?
Dexterous is typically associated with a more formal and technical tone, while nimble is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
