tactful

adjective

tact·​ful ˈtakt-fəl How to pronounce tactful (audio)
: having or showing tact
tactfully adverb
tactfulness noun

Examples of tactful in a Sentence

He gave a tactful critique of her story. It was tactful of her not to criticize me in front of my boss.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Maintaining transparency, while being tactful throughout your job search, is key to showcasing integrity and distinguishing yourself as a candidate who won’t bolt at the next opportunity. Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 Samsung’s tactful color grading made in-scene black levels like the oily shimmer of a whale’s fin splashing into the water pop with realistic depth. Ryan Waniata, WIRED, 24 May 2024 There is nothing tactful, after all, about the prejudices that assault George on every corner. Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 25 Oct. 2024 As such, when Heart of Glass popped up on the playlist, no one made a fuss, but simply shared a tactful nod, wink, and cheers towards the center of the room. Freya Drohan, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tactful 

Word History

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tactful was in 1864

Dictionary Entries Near tactful

Cite this Entry

“Tactful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tactful. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

tactful

adjective
tact·​ful ˈtakt-fəl How to pronounce tactful (audio)
: having or showing tact
tactfully adverb
tactfulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on tactful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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