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Tactical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tactical

[ˈtæktɪkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

military strategy

Relating to or constituting actions carefully planned to gain a specific military end. Involving or pertaining to actions or choices that are planned in advance with a specific purpose in mind. Characterized by skillful planning, especially in a military context.

Synonyms

calculated, planned, strategic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tactical

Used when referring to short-term actions or maneuvers designed to achieve a specific goal.

  • The army made a tactical retreat to regroup.
  • Her tactical approach to negotiations won her the deal.
strategic

Used for actions or plans designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim, usually involving careful and deliberate planning.

  • The company made a strategic acquisition to enter a new market.
  • His strategic vision reshaped the organization.
planned

Refers to actions or events that have been thought out and arranged in advance.

  • The party was planned months in advance.
  • They planned every detail of the vacation.
calculated

Used to describe actions done with careful consideration and intent, often implying precision and potential manipulation.

  • His response was calculated to avoid any controversy.
  • She made a calculated decision to invest in the startup.

Examples of usage

  • His tactical skills helped the team win the battle.
  • The general devised a tactical plan to outmaneuver the enemy forces.
  • The soldiers received specialized training in tactical maneuvers.
Context #2 | Adjective

sports

Relating to or constituting actions carefully planned to achieve a specific goal in a sport. Involving strategies and maneuvers designed to achieve success in a particular sport. Characterized by thoughtful planning and execution in a sporting context.

Synonyms

clever, skillful, strategic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tactical

Use in situations where there is a plan to achieve a short-term goal or action, often related to military or competitive settings.

  • The general made a tactical decision to move the troops at night
  • Their tactical maneuvering in the game earned them the win
strategic

Appropriate for long-term planning and large-scale coordination, often related to achieving significant outcomes or goals.

  • The company's strategic plan aims to expand its market share
  • He was strategic in building his professional network
skillful

Best used to describe someone's proficiency or talent in performing a specific task or activity, often through practice or experience.

  • The artist was skillful in her use of colors
  • The surgeon is known for his skillful hands
clever

Suitable for situations where someone demonstrates quick thinking or inventiveness, often in a light-hearted or positive manner.

  • She devised a clever solution to the problem
  • His clever joke made everyone laugh

Examples of usage

  • The coach implemented tactical changes to counter the opponent's strategy.
  • The team's tactical approach to the game proved successful.
  • She is known for her tactical awareness on the soccer field.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Military History

  • Tactical strategies have been crucial in many battles throughout history, influencing the outcomes of wars.
  • Popular tactical formations like the phalanx were used by ancient Greek warriors to outmaneuver opponents.
  • World War II saw the rise of combined arms tactics, which integrated different military units to enhance battle effectiveness.

Sports

  • In sports like football (soccer), teams use tactical formations to outsmart their opponents.
  • Tactical decisions like when to substitute a player can change the momentum of a game.
  • Coaches often create intricate plays based on the tactics that best exploit the weaknesses of the opposing team.

Business

  • In the corporate world, tactical strategies might include marketing plans designed to increase sales quickly.
  • Businesses often undertake tactical planning to adapt quickly to changing market conditions.
  • Effective tactical execution can give companies a competitive edge in their industries.

Origin of 'tactical'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Greek word 'taktikos', meaning 'skilled in arranging', showing its roots in strategy.
  • The term 'tactical' became popular in military contexts first, emphasizing planning in battles before gaining broader usage.
  • The word has been in use since the early 19th century, expanding into various fields beyond the military.

The word 'tactical' originates from the Greek word 'taktikos', meaning 'of or relating to arrangement or order'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century during the Thirty Years' War, a conflict that saw the development of advanced military tactics. Over time, 'tactical' evolved to encompass not only military strategies but also broader applications in sports, business, and everyday decision-making.

See also: tactician, tactics.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,421 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.