1.
skill; dexterity; efficiency; workmanship
The ability to do something skillfully, smoothly, and efficiently. Refers to how well and quickly one handles tasks, especially practical or manual ones.
彼女は手際よく料理を作った。
She cooked the meal skillfully and efficiently.
手際が悪くて、時間がかかってしまった。
I was inefficient and it took too long.
手際のいい仕事ぶりに感心した。
I was impressed by the skillful way the work was done.
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 手際がいい/よい (skillful, efficient, deft)
- 手際が悪い (clumsy, inefficient)
- 手際よく (skillfully, efficiently - adverb)
- 鮮やかな手際 (brilliant/impressive skill)
USAGE:
手際 emphasizes smooth, efficient execution—doing something without wasted motion or time.
- 手際よく片付ける (to clean up efficiently)
- 手際よく仕事をこなす (to handle work efficiently)
CONTEXT:
Often used for cooking, housework, crafts, and any practical tasks where efficiency and skill are valued.
KANJI BREAKDOWN:
- 手 (hand) + 際 (edge/skill) = skill with the hands
RELATED WORDS:
- 腕前 (skill, ability - more about capability level)
- 手さばき (dexterity, handling skill - especially with tools/objects)