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maneuver

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /məˈnuːvər/

KK: /məˈnuːvər/

intransitive verb
Definition

To move skillfully or carefully in order to achieve a goal or change direction.


Example

The driver had to maneuver the car through the narrow streets.


Tense Forms

Past: maneuvered

Past Participle: maneuvered


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how he had to maneuver through the crowd to get to the stage?
Sloth B
Yeah, that looked tricky but he handled it well.
Sloth A
I wonder how he learned to maneuver like that without bumping into anyone.
Sloth B
Probably just a lot of practice at events like that!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
navigate
steer
wield
Antonyms
stagnate
remain
halt
noun
Definition

A skillful or controlled movement, often involving a change in direction or position, especially in vehicles or military operations.


Example

The driver made a quick maneuver to avoid the obstacle in the road.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that driver maneuver around the corner?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was pretty impressive how they handled it!
Sloth A
I wish I could maneuver like that in my car.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To move or guide something skillfully or carefully, often through a series of changes or movements.


Example

She had to maneuver the boat through the narrow channel.


Tense Forms

Past: maneuvered

Past Participle: maneuvered


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how he maneuver that car through the traffic?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was impressive! I can't believe he did it so smoothly.
Sloth A
I wish I could maneuver my car like that in busy streets.
Root Explanation

Maneuver → It is formed from "manu" (from Latin *manu*, meaning by hand) and "oeuvre" (from Old French *oeuvre*, meaning work). The word "maneuver" refers to a movement or series of moves requiring skill and care, often done by hand.

Memory Tip

Think of using your 'hand' ('manu') to perform a 'work' ('oeuvre') — that's how you remember that maneuver means to skillfully move or operate.

Visually Confused Words
outmaneuver
manurer
Is this page helpful?
With practice, you'll definitely get better at it!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tactic
operation
movement
Antonyms
stagnation
inactivity
impasse
Sloth B
With practice, you'll get better at it, just take it slow.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
navigate
steer
manipulate
Antonyms
mismanage
neglect
hinder