Writing Tip 148: “Slight of Hand” vs. “Sleight of Hand”
Maybe you have a love of magic. Maybe you had that uncle who always pulled a coin from your ear. Maybe you always cheat at cards (shame on you). Whatever the case, make sure you’re writing the correct idiom.
Sleight of hand is the correct way to write this phrase. The word “sleight” doesn’t get much use these days, but it means “dexterity” or “cunning.”
If you were writing about “slight of hand,” then that would mean small or feeble hands, but I don’t think that’s what you’re aiming for.
Got it?
Writing Tip 147.2: Sleight of hand is also known as “prestidigitation.” Say that ten times fast, I dare you.