tact

Synonym Chooser

How is the word tact different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of tact are address, poise, and savoir faire. While all these words mean "skill and grace in dealing with others," tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate.

questions showing a lack of tact

When could address be used to replace tact?

The synonyms address and tact are sometimes interchangeable, but 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

Where would poise be a reasonable alternative to tact?

In some situations, the words poise and tact are roughly equivalent. However, poise may imply both tact and address but stresses self-possession and ease in meeting difficult situations.

answered the accusations with unruffled poise

When might savoir faire be a better fit than tact?

The words savoir faire and tact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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

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 tact Three corners of the brownie remained in tact, but the missing chunk from the center has left the brownie looking pretty unusual, sparking plenty of amused comments from viewers. Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025 The most successful and influential leaders in these complex times will be the ones who find ways to navigate seemingly contradictory elements with tact and purpose. Cynthia Pong, Jd, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 The Black dandy flippantly devalues the bourgeoisie—not with talk, but with tact and taste. Akilah Sailers, Essence, 28 Apr. 2025 The officer also found a Molotov cocktail that was still in tact near the burning Cybertruck just before midnight, according to an affidavit. Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tact
Noun
  • Beneath the headlines, something more strategic is unfolding: a realignment of U.S. influence grounded in private-sector diplomacy and transactional power.
    Yohann Ripert, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2025
  • The ship’s missions require the crew to work together to overcome challenges such as combat, puzzle-solving, diplomacy, and exploration.
    Phillip Molnar, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 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 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
  • 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
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
  • Because of the break in scheduling — Triple-A and Double-A affiliates hold their All-Star breaks at the same time MLB does — there is some consideration as to whether Herrera will need more live at-bats before re-joining the team.
    Katie Woo, New York Times, 11 July 2025
  • According to Claire Shorenstein, MS, RD, CSSD, a sports dietitian at Eat for Endurance, a dish like this does in fact hit a lot of the nutrition considerations for athletes.
    Audrey Bruno, SELF, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tact. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

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