savoir faire

Synonym Chooser

How is the word savoir faire different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of savoir faire are address, poise, and tact. While all these words mean "skill and grace in dealing with others," 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

When would address be a good substitute for savoir faire?

While the synonyms address and savoir faire are close in meaning, 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

When is it sensible to use poise instead of savoir faire?

The words poise and savoir faire are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, poise may imply both tact and address but stresses self-possession and ease in meeting difficult situations.

answered the accusations with unruffled poise

When can tact be used instead of savoir faire?

Although the words tact and savoir faire have much in common, tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate.

questions showing a lack of tact

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 savoir faire Powered by the brand’s Calibre 2460 automatic movement with 40 hours of power reserve, these stunning pieces are top-shelf collector’s items that bring together the very best aspects of Vacheron Constantin’s savoir faire. Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2025 Compelling for their incredible micro-engineering and aesthetics, QPs draw attention to the brand’s savoir faire and act as a calling card for its capabilities as a watchmaker. Oren Hartov, Robb Report, 25 Feb. 2025 Carefully removing and preserving wall panels from estates and palaces and replicating them with masterful French savoir faire is what has driven the Féau Boiseries’ popularity in the upper echelons of society for the past 150 years. Sofia Celeste, WWD, 30 Jan. 2025 The latest in Van Cleef & Arpels’s historic line of precious decorative objects, this one-of-a-kind piece is at once a feat of artisanal savoir faire and a flourish of figurative artistry. Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 18 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for savoir faire
Recent Examples of Synonyms for savoir faire
Noun
  • Number of Tourists in 2024: 45 million From ancient Aztec ruins to the colonial charm of Oaxaca, Mexico grabs you by the senses and doesn’t let go.
    Lewis Nunn, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • One of the oldest towns in South Carolina, Conway is steeped in historic charm.
    Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • The new price cap on Russian crude will remain flexible in line with market dynamics and will be set at just above 47 dollars per barrel at current market prices, according to four European officials who spoke to CNBC on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the topic.
    Ruxandra Iordache, CNBC, 18 July 2025
  • The Justice Department has cited the need to protect the identities of victims and witnesses, along with the sensitivity of grand jury materials, as reasons for withholding additional evidence.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 July 2025
Noun
  • The convergence of reason and gallantry, of irony and affection, struck a teasing tone.
    Merve Emre, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
  • Written with filmmaker Matt Yoka, Possession marries the Band’s Americana with T. Rex’s fuzzy glam, anchored by Segall’s always-stellar guitar gallantry.
    Dan Reilly, Vulture, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • Agreeing to remove a controversial ingredient is a way to get in the administration’s good graces and can be a good business move—even if your foods are largely still unhealthy.
    Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 18 July 2025
  • But throughout it all, she's maintained her signature grace, light, and humor.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 18 July 2025
Noun
  • This is not so much a question of good manners as good visibility.
    Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Minding your manners will make the trip better for everyone.
    Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 12 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The documentary features historic film footage of America’s first female soldiers courtesy of the National Archives and rare photos from family archives.
    Linda Mcintosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 July 2025
  • Its roots are Cuban, with its impeccable production — courtesy of husband Emilio Estefan Jr. — bringing yesterday and today to the forefront through the voice of Latin music’s original groundbreaking diva.
    Leila Cobo, Billboard, 18 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Savoir faire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/savoir%20faire. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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