Tactless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tactless
tact-less
Definition
social interaction
Having or showing a lack of sensitivity towards others; being blunt or insensitive in one's remarks or behavior.
Synonyms
blunt, brash, indelicate, insensitive.
Examples of usage
- She made a tactless comment about his weight.
- His tactless behavior offended many people at the party.
- Don't be so tactless, think about how your words may affect others.
Translations
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Quick facts about “tactless”
Tactless is a 2-syllable adjective (tact-less). It is pronounced /ˈtæktɫəs/ in American English and /tˈæktləs/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 4 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #31,183 among the most common English words.
Did you know?
“tactless” in psychology
- People who are tactless may struggle with empathy, which affects their ability to understand how their words impact others.
- Social skills training often emphasizes the importance of tact in building relationships and avoiding misunderstandings.
“tactless” in literature
- In literature, tactless characters often create conflict, revealing their flaws and adding to the story’s drama.
- Writers use tactless characters to highlight social norms and expectations within a narrative, providing humor or tension.
“tactless” in pop culture
- Reality shows often feature tactless moments for comedic effect, enhancing the drama and interactions between characters.
- Comedians frequently use tactless remarks as a tool to poke fun at social situations, drawing laughs through awkwardness.
“tactless” in communication
- Tactless comments in conversation can lead to misunderstandings, making it crucial to choose words carefully, especially in sensitive discussions.
- Training in communication skills emphasizes the balance between honesty and tact to enhance understanding in dialogues.
Origin of 'tactless'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tactless' comes from 'tact,' which means being sensitive to others' feelings, combined with the suffix '-less' meaning without.
- It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, capturing a social concern for polite communication.
The word 'tactless' originated in the early 20th century, combining the word 'tact' meaning skill in dealing with difficult or delicate situations, and the suffix '-less' indicating the absence of tact. It emphasizes the importance of being considerate and diplomatic in social interactions.