lack of tact

USAGE SUMMARY

"lack of tact" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is not sensitive to others' feelings, often speaking without thinking first. For example: "His lack of tact made it difficult to have a conversation with him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

"It's just a serious, gross lack of tact," Braden said.

The New York Times - Sports

A number of observers murmured their disapproval with Clinton's lack of tact in pointing this out.

The Washington Post

Tells about an encounter he had with Trudeau which showed the Prime Minister's lack of tact.

The New Yorker

But his lack of tact when asked about Senanayake was toe curling.

The Guardian - Sport

Despite his crazed lack of tact, the Magnum photographs confirm Stockhausen's judgment.

The Guardian

Partridge's cheerfulness and lack of tact is death-defying; his tenacity, genuinely admirable.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Exhibiting a lack of social tact.

WikiHow

It models a HUGE lack of empathy, respect, tact and maturity.

HuffPost

Yet even those who disliked Berryman personally for his lack of patience and tact and referred to him as "Berry the Bastard" respected his abilities as a staff officer.

Wikipedia

So Trump and Farage, even while being dismissed as mavericks and ridiculed for their lack of "normal" civility and tact, benefit from the underlying (and often overt) sympathy towards their central political messages.

The Guardian

Early on, Ai is unnerved by Estraven's subtlety: I thought that at table Estraven's performance had been womanly, all charm and tact and lack of substance, specious and adroit.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's behavior as a "lack of tact", provide specific examples to illustrate the insensitivity. This adds credibility and clarity to your assessment.

Common error

While "lack of tact" is generally acceptable, consider using more nuanced language in formal or business contexts to convey the same meaning without sounding overly critical. Alternatives like "insensitivity" or "lack of diplomacy" might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of tact" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a deficiency in someone's interpersonal skills or behavior. According to Ludwig, it is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of tact" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe someone's insensitivity or social awkwardness. Ludwig confirms its proper usage. While versatile, the context dictates the most suitable alternative, such as "insensitivity" or "social clumsiness". Remember to use it judiciously, especially in formal settings, and always illustrate with specific examples to enhance clarity and credibility. With a neutral register, the expression is most often found in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insensitivity

This alternative focuses on the emotional impact of the behavior, highlighting a failure to consider others' feelings.

lack of sensitivity

This alternative refers to the absence of understanding or consideration for the feelings of others.

social clumsiness

This alternative highlights awkwardness or ineptitude in social situations.

lack of diplomacy

This alternative highlights the absence of skill in handling delicate situations or negotiations.

gaffe

This alternative emphasizes a specific instance of social clumsiness or blunder.

absence of finesse

This alternative emphasizes the lack of skill and grace in handling a situation.

indiscretion

This alternative suggests a lapse in judgment or a breach of confidentiality.

social ineptitude

This alternative points to a general incompetence in social interactions.

boorishness

This alternative implies rudeness and a lack of refinement in behavior.

imprudence

This alternative emphasizes a lack of caution or foresight in one's actions or words.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of tact" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of tact" to describe someone's behavior, such as, "His "lack of tact" offended many people at the meeting." or "The diplomat's "lack of tact" strained international relations."

What are some synonyms for "lack of tact"?

Some synonyms for "lack of tact" include "insensitivity", "lack of diplomacy", and "social clumsiness". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to say someone has a "lack of tact" in a professional setting?

While understandable, stating someone has a "lack of tact" directly might be too blunt. Consider softer alternatives like saying they "could be more sensitive" or "might benefit from improved interpersonal skills". Using "indirect language" can help you achieve the same goal with more diplomacy.

What is the difference between "lack of tact" and "honesty"?

"Lack of tact" implies insensitivity and disregard for others' feelings, while honesty is about truthfulness. Though honesty is valued, expressing it with a "lack of tact" can be hurtful. You can be honest while still being considerate of others' feelings.