Agile vs. dexterous

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yuliyaon

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"Rhythmic gymnasts must be strong, flexible, agile, dexterous and coordinated." - what is the difference between 'agile' and 'dexterous'? One of the dictionary definitions for the latter says 'agile'. Is agility about body movements in general, while dexterity is about using hands?
 
Agility is about being able to move easily and in a co-ordinated way.

"Dexterous" refers to skill, usually in respect of physical tasks, and yes, it often, but not always, refers to skill with your hands.

There's some overlap.

To give you an example, lightweight boxers are agile. Someone skilled at needlework can be called dexterous.
 
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I have always spelt it 'dextrous'.
 
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