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 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 The personalized presentation of the liquid, and the experiences surrounding it, are an apt celebration of Martell’s 309 years and counting of tradition, heritage, and savoir faire. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 11 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for savoir faire
Recent Examples of Synonyms for savoir faire
Noun
  • Amenities: Saltwater pool, restaurant and bar, wellness zone, à la carte breakfast, Byredo toiletries Address: R. de São Marçal 77, 1200-419 Lisboa, Portugal The entrance to this property is hidden, but that only adds to its secluded charm.
    Monica Mendal, Vogue, 1 July 2025
  • Adding to their travel-friendly charms, the curtains are machine washable and come with a matching bag for easy storage.
    Shoko Wanger, Architectural Digest, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • The recent Spanish fraud scheme is currently under investigation by Spain’s National Court continues, underscoring persistent challenges and sensitivities surrounding Sephardic citizenship laws across Iberia.
    Orge Castellano, Sun Sentinel, 7 July 2025
  • While investors should remain aware of the substantial debt and historical sensitivity to market downturns, the long-term prospects for Jazz Pharmaceuticals seem positive for those with a 3-5 year investment horizon.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 7 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
  • Jordan Johnson of Little Rock, president of JPJ Consulting, said a photo of Anderson’s Labrador retriever graces the boxes of Fiocchi shotgun duck hunting shells.
    arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 9 July 2025
  • The angels who remained received God’s illuminating grace and, as a result, their will and His are one.
    Mary Jo Bang July 9, Literary Hub, 9 July 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
  • And not only does this travel-friendly projector cast a surprisingly sharp image, but the sound quality is excellent (courtesy of two five-watt Harman Kardon speakers), especially given the size of the projector.
    Drew Zieff, Outside Online, 8 July 2025
  • The latest warning comes courtesy of ThreatFabric, which has been tracking Anatsa for years.
    Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 8 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 15 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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