footwork

/'futwə:k/

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Explanation of "Footwork"

Definition:
"Footwork" is a noun that generally refers to the skillful use of one’s feet, especially in activities like dance, sports, or performing arts. It can also mean the clever or skillful way someone handles a situation, often in a tricky or complicated circumstance.

Examples:

1. Physical Ability:

   • "The dancer's footwork was so impressive that everyone in the audience clapped loudly." (In this sentence, "footwork" refers to the skillful movements of the dancer's feet.)

2. Clever Handling:

   • "In negotiations, he showed great footwork to ensure both parties felt satisfied." (Here, "footwork" describes the clever and skillful way he managed the negotiation.)

Advanced Usage:

• In professional sports, "footwork" is crucial for success. Players often practice their footwork to improve their speed and agility.
• In business or politics, "footwork" can refer to the strategic moves one makes to navigate complex situations or to persuade others.

Word Variants:

• Footwork (noun): The original term.
• Footworkless (adjective): Not having footwork; this term is rarely used.
• Footworky (adjective): Characterized by a lot of footwork, though this is also not commonly used.

Different Meanings:

1. Dance/Sports Context: The movement of the feet in a dance or athletic performance.
2. Strategic Context: The clever maneuvering in a challenging situation, often involving negotiation or management.

Synonyms:

• Agility (in sports context)
• Maneuvering (in strategic context)
• Movement (general context)
• Deftness (skillfulness)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Fancy footwork": This phrase refers to elaborate or skillful actions taken to avoid a difficult situation or to manage a tricky task.

  • Example: "To get the approval, she had to do some fancy footwork in her presentation."

• "Put your best foot forward": This idiom means to try your hardest or to make a good impression.

  • Example: "In the interview, make sure to put your best foot forward."

Summary:

"Footwork" can relate to physical movements, especially in dance and sports, as well as to the clever handling of complex situations.

Academic

Noun

1. skillful maneuvering or dealing
   • she needs some fancy footwork to cover all those lies
2. the manner of using the feet