Translation guide
The ability to use your hands skillfully and easily. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through words for manual skill, nimbleness, and adroitness, often with nuances of speed, precision, or cleverness.
He is confident in his manual dexterity.
She uses her dexterity to do detailed work.
Literally 'dexterity of the fingertips', emphasizing manual skill. Often used when talking about crafts, surgery, or playing instruments.
It's a job that requires manual dexterity.
Skillfulness or adroitness, often implying a high level of craftsmanship or artistry. More formal/literary than 器用さ.
I was impressed by the craftsman's dexterity.
Efficiency and skill in handling tasks, often with a sense of neatness and speed. Focuses on the way something is done.
I'm amazed at his dexterity (in handling things).
Specifically fingertip dexterity, used for very fine motor skills like sewing or playing piano.
Fingertip dexterity is important for a pianist.
The ability to think quickly and cleverly, especially in social or tricky situations.
Quick-wittedness, resourcefulness. Often used in phrases like 機転が利く (to be quick-witted).
He has mental dexterity, so he can handle any situation well.
Literally 'speed of mental rotation', meaning quick thinking or mental agility.
Ingenuity or cleverness, often with a nuance of cunning or craftiness. Can be used for schemes or clever solutions.
I can't match his dexterity (in scheming).
器用 (kiyou) specifically means dexterous or good with one's hands, while 上手 (jouzu) means skilled or good at something in general. You can be 上手 at sports but not necessarily 器用 with your hands.
The English word 'dexterity' covers both physical and mental skill, but Japanese often uses separate words. Avoid directly translating 'dexterity' as a single noun in all contexts; instead, describe the specific ability.
I'm always amazed at her mental dexterity.