Definition of savoir faire
: capacity for appropriate action; especially : a polished sureness in social behavior
From the M-W Editors
Examples of savoir faire in a Sentence
I admire her sophistication and savoir faire.
He handled the problem with his usual savoir faire.
Origin and Etymology of savoir faire
French savoir-faire, literally, knowing how to do
First Known Use: 1788
Synonym Discussion of savoir faire
tact, address, poise, savoir faire mean skill and grace in dealing with others. tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate. questions showing a lack of tact 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 poise may imply both tact and address but stresses self-possession and ease in meeting difficult situations. answered the accusations with unruffled poise 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
SAVOIR FAIRE Defined for English Language Learners
savoir faire
play
noun
Definition of savoir faire for English Language Learners
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: the ability to behave in a correct and confident way in different situations
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