noun

tact

/tækt/ · say it: takt

sensitivity in dealing with delicate matters

In Nuance & Precision

In more detail

1. (noun) the ability to say or do things in a way that does not upset or offend other people

2. (noun) careful understanding of what is appropriate to say or do in a situation

Examples

1. She handled the difficult conversation with tact and diplomacy.
2. He showed great tact by not mentioning his colleague's mistake in front of everyone.

How to use tact

Tact is the skill of handling delicate or difficult interpersonal situations gracefully, avoiding offense while being honest. It emphasizes both emotional awareness and practical restraint in what you say or do. Diplomacy is broader and more formal, while tact is personal and everyday.

Common phrases

show tact
lack of tact
with great tact
tactful approach
diplomatic tact
exercise tact

Synonyms

diplomacy · discretion · sensitivity · tactfulness · delicacy

Opposites

rudeness · insensitivity · bluntness

Word family

tactful · tactfully · tactless · tactlessly · tactlessness

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse tact with dishonesty; it is not about lying but about choosing words and timing wisely to respect others' feelings.

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