Translation guide
The skill of using quick, clever hand movements to deceive or entertain, often in magic tricks or by pickpockets. Can also refer to skillful deception in non-physical contexts.
The physical skill of quick, deceptive hand movements used by magicians or thieves.
The most direct and common translation for the physical skill. Literally 'quick hand technique'.
彼の手先の早業にはいつも驚かされる。
I'm always amazed by his sleight of hand.
Using clever, often misleading tactics to achieve a goal, not necessarily involving physical hands.
Means 'clever modus operandi' or 'ingenious trick'. Fits well for non-physical deception.
彼は巧妙な手口で契約を勝ち取った。
He won the contract through some sleight of hand.
Use 手先の早業 for physical dexterity (magic, pickpocketing). Use 巧妙な手口 for figurative trickery (business, politics).
マジシャンの手先の早業は見事だ。
The magician's sleight of hand is impressive.
会計士の巧妙な手口で税金を逃れた。
They evaded taxes through the accountant's sleight of hand.
Refers to magic tricks in general, often implying manual dexterity. More formal or technical.
彼は奇術の腕前で観客を魅了した。
He captivated the audience with his sleight of hand skills.
Specifically 'magic trick technique', often used when discussing the mechanics of a trick.
この手品のテクニックを習得するには練習が必要だ。
Mastering this sleight of hand technique requires practice.
Means 'pickpocket'. Implies the use of sleight of hand for theft. Use only when context is clearly about stealing.
Only for theft, not for magic tricks.
すりは人混みで手先の早業を使って財布を盗む。
Pickpockets use sleight of hand to steal wallets in crowds.
Literally 'word magic'. Used when someone deceives or persuades through clever speech.
政治家の言葉の魔術に騙されないように。
Don't be fooled by the politician's verbal sleight of hand.
Means 'cheating' or 'fraud'. Stronger and more negative than 'sleight of hand'. Use with caution.
Implies outright dishonesty, not just cleverness.
その取引はいかさまだった。
That deal was a sleight of hand.