A spectacle is an elaborate or impressive show or display, such as the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. The term can also refer, more generally, to a visually striking scene, such as a starry sky on a cloudless night. The key idea behind the word spectacle is that of being seen, which doesn’t always work to one’s favor! Indeed, a show or display that is remarkable for all the wrong reasons might be called a spectacle. Additionally, to make a spectacle of oneself is to behave foolishly or badly in public.

Someone who is sanguine about an outcome is cheerfully optimistic or confident that things will work out favorably—even if the odds are stacked against them. This term on its own is positive, but sanguine is often used to describe people who have an exceedingly rosy outlook in situations that would seem to call for the opposite. In those cases, sanguine may suggest a degree of naiveté.

The noun skill is a general term for the ability, rooted in one’s knowledge or practice, to do something well. The noun dexterity is more specific: it refers to one’s skill or adroitness in using the hands or body. A person who displays great dexterity is highly coordinated and able to perform a challenging physical activity with precision and ease. Dexterity is also used to refer to cleverness or agility of the mind.