tactful
TAKT-fuhl
/ˈtæktfʊl/
Showing skill and sensitivity in dealing with others or handling difficult, delicate situations without causing offense.
Focuses on diplomatic phrasing and choosing words carefully to deliver criticism or hard truths gracefully.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'tactus' (the sense of touch, from 'tangere' to touch). The noun 'tact' originally meant literal physical touch in the 17th century. By the 19th century, it evolved metaphorically into having a delicate 'touch' or sensitive feel for human feelings.
Word relationships
- diplomatic: Stresses official skill in international or high-stakes social negotiation.
- discreet: Emphasizes keeping secrets or avoiding attracting unwanted attention.
- tactless: Lacking sensitivity; blunt and offensive in social interaction.
- brash: Self-assertive, rude, and lacking consideration for others.
Commonly confused with
- tactical: Tactical refers to strategic military or action planning; tactful refers to sensitive and polite communication.
Word family
- tact (noun): Sensitivity and skill in dealing with others.
- tactfully (adverb): In a manner showing skill and sensitivity.
- tactlessness (noun): Lack of sensitivity when dealing with people.
Collocations
- tactful response
- tactful approach
- remain tactful
- tactful critique
Idioms & expressions
- handle with velvet gloves
- walking on eggshells
Example sentences
- "The manager was remarkably tactful when explaining performance shortfalls to sensitive team members." Human resources management
- "She gave tactful feedback that helped him improve without feeling attacked." Diplomatic history
Memory hook
TACTFUL people use delicate TOUCH (tact) in tough conversations. TACT-ful = full of delicate social TOUCH.
When not to use
Do not confuse with dishonesty or flattery; a tactful person tells the truth, but in a respectful manner.
Fun facts
- Winston Churchill famously quipped: 'Tact is the ability to tell someone to go to hell in such a way that they look forward to the trip.'
Related words
Explore more words
tact, diplomatic, discretion, savoir-faire, diplomacy, finesse
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