TACT Synonyms: 58 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'tact' different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of tact are address , poise , and savoir faire . While all these words mean "skill and grace in dealing with others," tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate. // questions showing a lack of tact

Q: When could 'address' be used to replace 'tact'?

The synonyms address and tact are sometimes interchangeable, but address stresses dexterity and grace in dealing with new and trying situations and may imply success in attaining one's ends. // brought it off with remarkable address

Q: Where would 'poise' be a reasonable alternative to 'tact'?

In some situations, the words poise and tact are roughly equivalent. However, poise may imply both tact and address but stresses self-possession and ease in meeting difficult situations. // answered the accusations with unruffled poise

Q: When might 'savoir faire' be a better fit than 'tact'?

The words savoir faire and tact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, savoir faire is likely to stress worldly experience and a sure awareness of what is proper or expedient. // the savoir faire of a seasoned traveler

tact

noun

ˈtakt

Definition of tact next

as in diplomacy

the ability to deal with others in touchy situations without offending them with supreme tact, Isabel suggested to her neighbor that her flower garden was probably not the best place for his dog to use as a bathroom

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How is the word tact different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of tact are address, poise, and savoir faire. While all these words mean "skill and grace in dealing with others," tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate.

questions showing a lack of tact

When could address be used to replace tact?

The synonyms address and tact are sometimes interchangeable, but address stresses dexterity and grace in dealing with new and trying situations and may imply success in attaining one's ends.

brought it off with remarkable address

Where would poise be a reasonable alternative to tact?

In some situations, the words poise and tact are roughly equivalent. However, poise may imply both tact and address but stresses self-possession and ease in meeting difficult situations.

answered the accusations with unruffled poise

When might savoir faire be a better fit than tact?

The words savoir faire and tact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, savoir faire is likely to stress worldly experience and a sure awareness of what is proper or expedient.

the savoir faire of a seasoned traveler

Examples Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of tact Venus in Virgo will charm your curious third house of communication, thought processes and immediate surroundings, adding a layer of meticulousness and tact to your approach and self-expression. —

Valerie Mesa, Peoplemag, 4 Aug. 2024 Just be careful not to let your enthusiasm override your tact — Mars in Leo loves the drama! —

Valerie Mesa, People.com, 3 Nov. 2024 In this article, the author offers four strategies for how to set boundaries around unsolicited input with tact, respect, and assertiveness. —

Melody Wilding, Harvard Business Review, 11 July 2024 The orchestra never quite matched her tact, though, with general ensemble shagginess and a few abrasive solo features. —

Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tact

Recent Examples of Synonyms for tact

Noun

Both strategic partners converge on the necessity of deploying diplomacy to promote peace, security, and stability.

Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
During his first term, Trump’s unconventional diplomacy with another recalcitrant nuclear power, North Korea, ultimately went nowhere, and overall his administration achieved few notable breakthroughs in dealing with adversarial powers.

Suzanne Maloney, Foreign Affairs, 10 Dec. 2024