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manoeuvre

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /məˈnuːvə/

KK: /məˈnuːvər/

noun
Definition

A planned and controlled movement or action, often used in a strategic or skillful way.


Example

The driver made a careful manoeuvre to avoid the obstacle in the road.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that incredible manoeuvre in the football match last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was amazing how he dodged all those defenders!
Sloth A
I know, right? That kind of manoeuvre takes so much skill.
Sloth B
Definitely! I wish I could do something like that on the field.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tactic
strategy
maneuver
Antonyms
inactivity
stagnation
impasse
Root Explanation

Manoeuvre → It originates from the Old French word *manoeuvre*, meaning a work or operation, derived from *manoeuvrer* (to work with the hands), which itself comes from *manu* (meaning hand) and *oeuvre* (meaning work). The word 'manoeuvre' refers to a planned movement or operation, often involving skillful handling or manipulation.

Memory Tip

Think of using your 'hands' ('manu') to perform a 'work' ('oeuvre') — that's how you remember that a manoeuvre is a skillful movement or operation.

Visually Confused Words
maneuverer
maneuver
manure
maneuvrable
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