lisura, suavidade, astúcia
1. the quality of being smooth, glossy, or slippery to the touch
The slickness of the ice made it dangerous to walk.
A lisura do gelo tornou perigoso caminhar.
2. skillful and clever execution, often with an implication of superficiality or deception
The salesman's slickness made people suspicious of his offers.
A astúcia do vendedor fez as pessoas desconfiarem de suas ofertas.
3. the quality of being polished, sophisticated, and professionally executed
The slickness of the production was evident in every detail.
A sofisticação da produção era evidente em cada detalhe.
4. a slippery or oily surface condition
The slickness on the floor created a hazard.
A superfície oleosa do piso criou um perigo.
In American English, 'slickness' can be both complimentary (when referring to professional polish or skill) and derogatory (when implying dishonesty or superficiality). In Brazilian Portuguese, 'astúcia' carries similar dual connotations. The word is frequently used in marketing and entertainment industries to describe high production value.
NYC Slang
slickness can refer to street smarts, game, or hustle; 'that's slick' means impressive or clever in NYC vernacular
Related Idioms & Phrases
slick as a whistle (extremely smooth or efficient)
slickness of tongue (persuasive or deceptive speech)
street slickness (urban cunning and awareness)
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