tactic
TAK-tik
/ˈtæktɪk/
An action or strategy carefully planned to achieve a specific, short-term end.
Tactics are the concrete, short-term actions taken to execute a larger, long-term strategy.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Greek word 'taktika', which referred to the art of arranging soldiers on a battlefield. It comes from 'tassein', meaning 'to arrange' or 'to marshal.'
Word relationships
- maneuver: A maneuver often implies a clever, deceptive, or highly physical movement, whereas a tactic can be any planned action.
- ploy: A ploy is a cunning tactic designed to embarrass or frustrate an opponent.
- strategy: Strategy is the overarching, long-term plan, while a tactic is the immediate, localized action.
Commonly confused with
- strategy: Strategy is the destination and the route; tactics are the individual steps you take along the way.
Word family
- tactical (adjective): Relating to small-scale, immediate actions.
- tactician (noun): A person who is highly skilled at planning tactics.
Collocations
- defensive tactic
- marketing tactic
- delaying tactic
- employ a tactic
Example sentences
- "Offering a free trial was a clever tactic to boost user acquisition." Marketing Strategy
- "The general's brilliant defensive tactic turned the tide of the battle." Military History
Memory hook
A tactic is a practical trick you use to tick off a task. A practical trick to tick off a task.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'strategy', which is the overall, long-term plan.
Fun facts
- In chess, a 'tactic' refers to a sequence of moves that limits the opponent's options and results in tangible gain, distinct from long-term positional strategy.
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