What does maneuvering mean?
“Maneuvering” describes deliberate movement and the management of people, vehicles, or plans. In its physical sense, it refers to steering or negotiating a path with skill, as in maneuvering through traffic or across difficult terrain. In its more figurative sense, it describes the use of tact, negotiation, or strategic influence to achieve an objective, especially in politics, business, or diplomacy. The word can be complimentary when it suggests skill and adaptability, but it may also imply manipulation, jockeying for position, or excessive calculation. “Maneuvering” is commonly used as a gerund and as a verbal noun, as in “political maneuvering.” Its spelling is chiefly American; British English usually uses “manoeuvring.” The word is useful because it captures both physical control and the less tangible art of shaping events through calculated action.
To move, steer, or arrange something with skill, or to use strategic action to influence events or gain an advantage.
"The negotiator was maneuvering carefully between competing interests."
The gerund form commonly describes an activity in progress, as well as a broader strategy or style of behavior.
The act or practice of maneuvering, especially strategic or political maneuvering.
"The negotiations were marked by constant maneuvering and compromise."
It may be used as a mass noun for the general activity or in the plural for separate acts or schemes.
The plural is used for separate acts, tactics, or schemes of maneuvering; singular mass use is also common.
"The committee's internal maneuverings continued throughout the evening."
Maneuvering hides its hand in plain sight: the word comes from Latin for working with the hand, yet today it usually describes calculated movement in people, forces, or plans.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does maneuvering come from?
The word comes through French manœuvrer, from Latin manu operari, “to work with the hand.” In its earliest uses, it referred to the practical handling of ships, vehicles, or troops, and it developed figurative meanings for strategic or political activity. The present form “maneuvering” follows the same historical development, while related words such as “manual,” “maintain,” and “manuscript” ultimately preserve the Latin root manus, meaning “hand.”
Related word forms
How maneuvering is actually used
The word often suggests deliberate control, skill, or indirect political activity. It is formal or neutral in style, though it can imply manipulation or excessive tactical maneuvering. The spelling is chiefly American; British English generally prefers “manoeuvring.”
Easily confused with maneuvering
“Manoeuvre” is the usual British spelling, while “maneuver” and “maneuvering” are chiefly American spellings of the same word.