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
  • With a blend of national prestige and plenty of local charm, this week’s major in Charlotte is a celebration of the Queen City’s culture and its place in the world of sport.
    Shane Connuck, Charlotte Observer, 14 May 2025
  • The move was widely viewed as part of a Chinese charm offensive to capitalize on tensions with the Trump administration.
    Micah McCartney, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • Common effects include nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
    Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 19 May 2025
  • In one analysis, participants who slept less than six hours for several nights experienced hormonal changes that increased appetite, decreased insulin sensitivity and elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone that, in excess, can impair immunity and gut function).
    Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
Noun
  • 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
  • His offense: saving the damned with the melancholic gallantry of a real angel of history.
    Harmony Holiday, Harpers Magazine, 29 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The headless chicken monster is worthy of note, not just for its funny nickname, but for its jewel-like beauty and grace as a swimmer.
    Amanda Kooser, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
  • But the only thing standard about the play that involves Hurts getting shoved by a teammate or two in the physical region that defies verbal grace is the consistency with which the Philadelphia Eagles pick up first downs, score touchdowns and confound those who haven’t yet found a way to stop it.
    Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 21 May 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
  • Published on May 21, 2025 By Jaclyn Trop Photo : David Westphal, courtesy of Cadillac Photo : David Westphal, courtesy of Cadillac The model is a four-door hatchback presenting a mid-century modern aesthetic.
    Jaclyn Trop, Robb Report, 21 May 2025
  • Their only early scoring was courtesy of back-to-back two-out doubles from Freeman and Smith in the bottom of the fourth.
    Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 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 28 May. 2025.

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