ambidexter

An ambidexter can write with both hands equally well.

Definition

1. Noun:

   • A person who is equally skilled with both hands: "ambidexter" refers to an individual who can use both hands with equal dexterity.
   • A deceitful or double-dealing person: Historically, the term also denotes someone who acts duplicitously, maintaining two contradictory positions or loyalties for personal advantage.

2. Adjective (archaic):

   • Able to use both hands with equal ease: A synonym for "ambidextrous," describing manual ambidexterity.
   • Two-faced or hypocritical: Pertaining to insincere or double-dealing behavior.

Usage Examples

• Noun (skilled with both hands):

  • The surgeon was an ambidexter, performing delicate operations with either hand. (A doctor equally capable with both hands.)

• Noun (deceitful person):

  • The politician was known as an ambidexter, promising different things to different groups. (A duplicitous person who says contradictory things.)

• Adjective:

  • His ambidexter nature allowed him to write with his left hand after injuring his right. (His ability to use both hands.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be an ambidexter in business": to engage in double-dealing or unethical practices in commerce.

  • The merchant was an ambidexter, selling the same goods to two buyers. (He acted dishonestly for profit.)

• "ambidexter's trick": a deceptive maneuver or act of duplicity.

  • She used an ambidexter's trick to win the contract, pretending loyalty to both companies. (A deceitful strategy.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ambidextrous (adj): able to use both hands equally well; also, double-dealing.

  • The pitcher is ambidextrous, throwing equally fast with either arm. (Skilled with both hands.)

• Ambidexterity (n): the quality of being ambidextrous; skill with both hands.

  • His ambidexterity made him a valuable basketball player. (His equal hand skill.)

• Ambidextrously (adv): in a manner showing skill with both hands.

  • She ambidextrously juggled three balls with each hand. (Using both hands equally.)

Synonyms

• Two-handed: able to use both hands effectively.

  • He is a two-handed tennis player. (He can play with either hand.)

• Double-dealer: a person who acts deceitfully or hypocritically.

  • The double-dealer was exposed when his lies were revealed. (A dishonest person.)

Related Idioms

• To have two left hands: to be clumsy or unskilled (opposite of ambidexter).

  • He has two left hands when it comes to fixing cars. (He is awkward.)

• To play both sides: to act duplicitously, supporting two opposing parties.

  • The spy played both sides during the war. (He was an ambidexter in loyalty.)