Definitions

tact

[takt] / tækt /

NOUN

finesse, thoughtfulness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

common-sense discretion prudence refinement sensitivity subtlety

STRONG

acumen acuteness address adroitness amenity aptness care consideration control courtesy delicacy diplomacy discernment discrimination gallantry head intelligence judgment penetration perception perspicacity poise policy presence repose skill smoothness suavity tactfulness understanding urbanity

WEAK

delicatesse good taste horse sense politicness savoir faire

Antonyms

STRONGEST

carelessness

STRONG

agitation bad manners disregard ignorance impoliteness inability ineptness neglect negligence omission rudeness stupidity thoughtlessness upset

WEAK

indiscretion tactlessness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Leo XIV tossed away the diplomatic tact usually required of popes as he began a state visit to Spain on Saturday, revealing that his footballing loyalties lie with Real Madrid.

From Barron's • Jun. 6, 2026

Edwards-Jones’ journalism background shows up — it’s well researched and presented with tact.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 20, 2026

What distinguishes Mr. Zipperstein’s volume—composed with the tact of a historian who has read the archives and the novels with equal care—is how deliberately it resists the temptations that have undone earlier efforts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

In her book, Finding Forgotten Cities: How the Indus Civilization Was Discovered, historian Nayanjot Lahiri writes that Banerjee "lacked diplomacy and tact and displayed a high-handedness that ruffled feathers".

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2025

The Queen, with her usual admirable tact and good sense, came to the rescue.

From "The BFG" by Roald Dahl

Vocabulary lists containing tact

Common Senses: Tact, Tang ("Touch")

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"The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak, Part Nine

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The Odyssey

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!