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Tact Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tact

[tĂŚkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

social interaction

Tact refers to the ability to communicate with others in a thoughtful and considerate manner, especially in sensitive or difficult situations. It involves being aware of other people's feelings and emotions, and acting in a way that shows respect and empathy.

Synonyms

consideration, diplomacy, discretion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tact

Used when needing to handle sensitive situations or communicate without offending.

  • She handled the criticism with great tact
  • It requires a lot of tact to discuss such personal matters
diplomacy

Appropriate in contexts involving negotiation, international relations, or resolving conflicts smoothly.

  • Successful diplomacy helped to ease tensions between the two countries
  • She approached the situation with careful diplomacy
discretion

Best used when highlighting the ability to make responsible decisions and maintain confidentiality.

  • He handled the private information with great discretion
  • Using discretion, the manager decided not to disclose the full details
consideration

Suitable when referring to thinking about others' feelings and needs.

  • Please show some consideration for those who arrive late
  • His consideration for others makes him a great leader

Examples of usage

  • She handled the situation with tact and diplomacy.
  • His tactful approach diffused the tension in the room.
  • Using tact can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'tact'

The word 'tact' originated from the Latin word 'tactus', which means 'sense of touch' or 'perception'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the skill of dealing with others in a sensitive and thoughtful way. The concept of tact has been valued in various cultures throughout history as an important aspect of social interaction and communication.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,970, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.