Tactics: meaning, definitions and examples

⚔️
Add to dictionary

tactics

 

[ ˈtæktɪks ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

military strategy

Tactics refer to the specific actions or maneuvers used to achieve a short-term goal on the battlefield. They often involve the positioning of troops, deployment of resources, and coordination of attacks.

Synonyms

maneuver, scheme, strategy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
tactics

Same as the first 'tactics' entry, emphasizing short-term actions within a broader strategy.

  • The politician used effective tactics to win the debate.
  • The tactics employed by the rescue team ensured the safety of everyone involved.
strategy

Describes a long-term plan designed to achieve a major or overall aim. It implies overall planning and higher-level decision-making.

  • The company is developing a new marketing strategy for next year.
  • His strategy for winning the game was to focus on defense.
maneuver

Refers to a skilled or strategic movement, often used in military contexts or competitive situations. It implies a specific movement or action to gain an advantage.

  • The general's maneuver caught the enemy off guard.
  • He executed a perfect maneuver to overtake the leading car in the race.
scheme

Often used in a negative sense, referring to a secret or dishonest plan to achieve a goal. It can also mean a systematic plan or arrangement but is less common in positive contexts.

  • The undercover detective uncovered their scheme to steal the money.
  • She's always coming up with some new scheme to get rich quickly.

Examples of usage

  • The general's tactics included a surprise flank attack on the enemy forces.
  • The use of camouflage was a clever tactic to deceive the opponent.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

In sports, tactics are the plans or strategies employed by a team or individual to outwit the opponent and achieve victory. This may involve changing formations, making quick decisions, or adapting to the opponent's strengths and weaknesses.

Synonyms

approach, game plan, strategy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
tactics

Utilize this term when discussing specific, detailed actions or plans aimed at achieving a short-term goal or overcoming immediate challenges. Often used in military, sports, or competitive scenarios.

  • The coach focused on defensive tactics to secure the victory
  • The army employed guerrilla tactics to outmaneuver the enemy
strategy

Appropriate for high-level, long-term planning aimed at achieving major goals. It is often used in business, military, or competitive contexts and implies a broader, more complex plan than 'tactics'.

  • The company's long-term strategy focuses on sustainable growth
  • Developing a winning strategy for the game was key to their success
game plan

Commonly used in informal settings, especially in sports or business, when outlining a comprehensive plan or set of strategies to achieve a specific goal. It often implies a sense of strategy that's approachable and practical.

  • The team's game plan was to focus on their opponent's weaknesses
  • We need a solid game plan to meet our quarterly targets
approach

Best used when referring to a general method or way of dealing with a problem or situation. This term is flexible and can be applied in various settings such as personal, business, or academic contexts.

  • Her approach to solving the issue was innovative
  • The company's approach to customer service has boosted their reputation

Examples of usage

  • The coach's tactics of aggressive pressing led to multiple turnovers by the opposing team.
  • His tactical approach of counterattacking caught the opponent off guard.

Translations

Translations of the word "tactics" in other languages:

🇵🇹 táticas

🇮🇳 रणनीति

🇩🇪 Taktiken

🇮🇩 taktik

🇺🇦 тактика

🇵🇱 taktyki

🇯🇵 戦術

🇫🇷 tactiques

🇪🇸 tácticas

🇹🇷 taktikler

🇰🇷 전술

🇸🇦 تكتيكات

🇨🇿 taktiky

🇸🇰 taktiky

🇨🇳 战术

🇸🇮 taktike

🇮🇸 taktík

🇰🇿 тактика

🇬🇪 ტაქტიკა

🇦🇿 taktikalar

🇲🇽 tácticas

Etymology

The term 'tactics' originated from the Greek word 'taktikos', meaning 'of or relating to arrangement or order'. It was first used in a military context to describe the methods of organizing and deploying troops in battle. Over time, the concept of tactics expanded to other areas such as sports and business, where strategic planning and execution are essential for success.

See also: tactical, tactician.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,276 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.