1. Skill and elegance in handling or performing something; delicate and refined technique.
2. Subtle or clever handling of a situation; diplomatic tact.
3. In card games, an attempt to win a trick with a lower card when a higher card is held.
Usage: card games

1. To handle or perform with finesse; to do something skillfully and elegantly.
2. To use finesse in a card game; to attempt to win a trick with a lower card.
Usage: card games

Examples

• The pianist played the difficult passage with remarkable finesse.
• She handled the delicate negotiation with great finesse and diplomacy.
• He finessed his way through the awkward conversation without offending anyone.
• The chef finessed the sauce to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
• In bridge, a finesse is a risky but potentially rewarding card-playing technique.
• The artist's finesse with watercolors was evident in every brushstroke.
• They finessed the deal by making small concessions that satisfied both parties.