tactful

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "tactful" is correct and usable in written English.
You would use it to describe someone who is discreet and has a diplomatic approach to difficult situations. For example, "John is always very tactful with his customers, ensuring that everyone is satisfied with the outcome of the conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An adolescent who has so far refused to accept that tact is a virtue can be brought to see the importance of being tactful in a particular case, and is then in a position to apply this knowledge more generally.

SEP

I know there's a new one, but the more I've been through it, the more I speak to friends, the more cuts that are threatened, and the more I hear about Charlotte Bevan's story, I think the most tactful thing I can say about it is … it's not my choice.

The Guardian - Opinion

Followed by 20 years of tactful distance.

The Guardian - Sport

Nor did Washington's location reconcile the secessionist states of the South to the federal project, nor does Ottawa's tactful symbolic bridging of the border between Quebec and Ontario cut much ice with today's Québécois.Indeed, capitals designed to project a particular image, as Dr Mahathir intends with the futuristic Putrajaya, soon come to seem anachronistic, eccentric or both.

The Economist

Neutral diplomats may call Cuba a communist paradise, but the tactful faces of the Russian experts carry a hint of their bafflement at the soaring hopes, the sunstruck lethargy, the eager conformism and the even more eager heresies of Caribbean socialism.

The Economist

Cardinal Zen, who dismisses any link with his appointment, described the ordinations as "acts of war".The pope's letter was more tactful.

The Economist

He also said there was a need to "diversify" the global currency system, a tactful way of saying the dollar's sway should diminish.

The Economist

But, when it comes to style, Mr Bloomberg would have the advantage of following Mr Giuliani: it is hard to imagine how any successor could be less tactful or more authoritarian.More worrying are the conflicts of interest that can arise when businessmen enter government.

The Economist

You may think that an agreeably tactful answer.

The Economist

Mr Khatami's own tactful and amiable style has protected him from the fierce assaults that assail his allies.

The Economist

Softbank's brash, commercial style is at odds with the tactful understanding that the government expects of Japanese bankers.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When delivering difficult feedback, frame it with empathy and understanding to be perceived as "tactful" rather than critical.

Common error

Avoid confusing blunt honesty with "tact". While honesty is valued, delivering harsh truths without sensitivity can damage relationships. "Tactful" communication requires balancing honesty with consideration for others' feelings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "tactful" is as an adjective. It modifies a noun to describe the quality of possessing or exhibiting tact, as seen in examples from Ludwig such as "a tactful approach" or "a tactful person". The adjective enhances the understanding of the subject's behavior or characteristics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tactful" is a versatile adjective used to describe someone skilled in handling sensitive situations with care and consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is grammatically correct and widely accepted. The analysis of real-world examples reveals its frequent presence in news and media, encyclopedias, and science, highlighting its relevance across diverse domains. To enhance your writing, remember to balance honesty with empathy and avoid bluntness. Consider alternatives like "diplomatic", "discreet", or "sensitive" to refine your message further. By embracing these insights, you'll navigate complex conversations with grace and maintain positive relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diplomatic

Focuses on skill in negotiation and dealing with sensitive issues, often in a political context.

discreet

Emphasizes maintaining privacy and avoiding drawing attention to sensitive information.

sensitive

Highlights an awareness and understanding of others' feelings and needs.

considerate

Stresses thoughtfulness and concern for the well-being of others.

politic

Implies shrewdness and practicality in handling delicate situations, sometimes suggesting a degree of self-interest.

prudent

Focuses on careful and wise decision-making to avoid causing offense or harm.

circumspect

Indicates caution and carefulness in speech and action to avoid mistakes or causing upset.

judicious

Highlights the use of good judgment and wisdom in handling sensitive matters.

delicate

Emphasizes the need for careful and subtle handling of a situation or topic.

measured

Suggests a controlled and deliberate approach, avoiding extremes or impulsiveness.

FAQs

How do you use "tactful" in a sentence?

You can use "tactful" to describe someone who is skilled at handling sensitive situations with grace and consideration. For instance, "She was very tactful in addressing the delicate issue with her colleague".

What's the difference between "tactful" and "diplomatic"?

"Tactful" generally refers to being sensitive and considerate in your approach, while "diplomatic" implies skill in negotiation and handling sensitive situations, often in a political context.

What are some synonyms for "tactful"?

Some synonyms for "tactful" include "diplomatic", "discreet", "sensitive", and "considerate", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of handling situations with care.

When is it important to be "tactful"?

It's important to be "tactful" when delivering criticism, discussing sensitive topics, or navigating challenging interpersonal situations. Being "tactful" helps maintain positive relationships and avoid unnecessary conflict.