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 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 When the world’s top luxury brands pour their savoir faire into Advent calendars, the results are—predictably—the height of luxury. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 17 Sep. 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
  • But that’s part of the charm of the 90-minute play, which has been extended through Sunday, July 6, at North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach.
    Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • Thanks to an extended frequency range, high sensitivity drivers and good temperature tolerance, these IEMs have a sound signature that’s closer to the type of sound produced by expensive electrostatic and planar-magnetic models.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
  • The official, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the talks, said Trump believes the immediate threat from Iran has been neutralized and that Netanyahu understood the U.S. position.
    Amanda Castro Hannah Parry Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 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
  • There’s a rhythm to how Hall leads: present, precise, but full of grace.
    Corein Carter, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • However, experts urge giving everyone grace and keeping an open mind.
    Beth Ann Mayer, Parents, 25 June 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 style’s timeless aesthetic and high-quality feel come courtesy of that leather upper with careful stitching, plus a traditional lace-up style and a supportive outsole carved with the map of Manhattan (harking back to Coach’s Big Apple identity).
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 25 June 2025
  • See which breweries are near you, courtesy of CT Brewers’ Guild.
    Staff report, Hartford Courant, 24 June 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 7 Jul. 2025.

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