also: こきよう
na-adjective
Describes someone who is good with their hands, resourceful, or able to handle various small tasks well. Often used for practical, manual dexterity or everyday cleverness.
彼は小器用で、何でも自分で直してしまう。
He is handy and fixes everything himself.
小
The more dexterous a person is, the better they are at detailed work.
Standard kanji spelling.
Rare reading; こぎよう is the common reading.
Compound of 小 (small) and 器用 (skillful, dexterous). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it likely emphasizes skill in minor or varied tasks.