tact

Synonym Chooser

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

Example 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 Each of them were able to make a plea before the Traitors picked their victim, with Jeremy taking a unique tact to self-preservation. Dalton Ross, EW.com, 17 Jan. 2025 In parallel, senior scientists — many of whom were hired for their science chops, not their empathetic leadership — should be taught compassionate mentorship, and how to respond to challenging situations with empathy and tact. Celia Ford, Vox, 3 Mar. 2025 Other highlights include an open-faced montre à tact (a watch that replicates the internal hour hand on the cover of the pocket watch via an arrow so that time could be read via touch) with a calendar and moonphase indications that was the inspiration for the Ref. 3330. Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 6 Feb. 2025 Otherwise, the writers have done an excellent job of exploring some heavy themes with humanity and tact. David Faris, Newsweek, 3 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tact
Noun
  • Resisting Systemic Drift On the world stage, inertia is often called diplomacy, status quo, or economic realism.
    Nell Derick Debevoise, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • The truth Trump may be reluctant to post about is that Russia’s diplomacy has predictably dissolved into a dizzying Catherine wheel of tangents.
    Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • This is not so much a question of good manners as good visibility.
    Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Leighton said being respectful of the flight crew, keeping your stuff in order, disposing of your trash responsibly, and just generally minding your manners make the flying experience more pleasant for everyone.
    Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 12 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • For various examples and further detailed indications about the nature and use of AI sensitivities prompting, see my coverage at the link here.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • While price sensitivity doesn’t usually affect luxury buyers, as previously explained by Randall Holcombe, professor of economics at Florida State University, to WWD, some other factors can impact the sale of Swiss brands in the U.S., including fear of a recession and market volatility.
    Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Foster a Climate That Is Inclusive, Not Exclusive There is a back story to Crazy Horse's battlefield gallantry.
    Chip Bell, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024
  • Great gallantry April 5th is known as Go for Broke Day.
    Kurt Snibbe, Oc Register, 3 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Creating New Garden Beds Choosing the right spot for a new garden bed takes a lot of consideration.
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2025
  • But the once-inconceivable consideration of tax increases underscores the tricky task that Republicans have in meeting competing demands from fiscal hawks, moderates and tax slashers for the ambitious party-line bill — as well as the rise of populist instincts in the party.
    Emily Brooks, The Hill, 17 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tact. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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