tactful style

USAGE SUMMARY

"tactful style" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a manner of communication that is considerate and diplomatic. For example, "Her tactful style made the difficult conversation much easier." Alternative expressions include "diplomatic approach" and "considerate manner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

His admirers insist that Mr Obama's patient and tactful style will eventually pay dividends: for example, by persuading Russia to lean on Iran to stop pursuing its own nuclear arsenal.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The subject was raised in a tactful way.

The New York Times - Magazine

What's the most tactful way to go about it?

Harvard Business Review

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

The Economist

Still others adopt a tactful, discursive reviewing style that allows them to write about books they don't rate without actually copping to an opinion.

The New York Times - Books

While most of my passengers were ambivalent or tactful about the exterior styling, the contemporary cabin drew universal applause.

The New York Times

Their communication style is straightforward and tactful, and they can be receptive to feedback if provided to them in the same manner.

Forbes

Fortunately for us mourners of the American-style lager, Eric Asimov is tactful enough in his review of America's macho-est microbrews to deny even one a modest three-star rating.

The New York Times

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

The Economist

Dawson was referring, with tactful obliqueness, to the emblem of the Dean style, his vaunted "unscriptedness" — which, by his own reckoning, constitutes both his Achilles heel and his appeal.

The New Yorker

What kind of speaking style — assertive or deferential, direct or tactful — works best?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's communication, use "tactful style" to emphasize their ability to handle sensitive situations with grace and consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "tactful style" as a euphemism for avoiding difficult conversations altogether. Tact involves addressing issues constructively, not ignoring them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tactful style" functions as an adjective-noun combination used to describe a specific manner of communication. It highlights the quality of being considerate and diplomatic in one's approach. As indicated by Ludwig, it correctly describes such a communication approach.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tactful style" describes a considerate and diplomatic approach to communication. Though it appears relatively infrequently in writing, as Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically sound and effectively conveys the idea of sensitivity and grace in interaction. Related phrases like "diplomatic approach" or "sensitive manner" offer similar ways to express this quality. When using "tactful style", remember to emphasize genuine consideration rather than simply avoiding difficult topics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diplomatic approach

Focuses on the use of diplomacy and negotiation to achieve a desired outcome.

skillful diplomacy

Highlights the expertise in handling sensitive situations.

sensitive manner

Highlights the care and consideration given to others' feelings.

discreet method

Emphasizes the subtle and unobtrusive nature of the approach.

considerate way

Stresses the thoughtfulness and empathy involved.

astute handling

Emphasizes the intelligence and perceptiveness in dealing with something.

politic conduct

Highlights the strategic and calculated nature of the behavior.

judicious approach

Highlights the sound judgment and carefulness used.

subtle technique

Focuses on the finesse and indirectness of the method.

prudent course

Emphasizes the wisdom and caution exercised.

FAQs

How can I use "tactful style" in a sentence?

"Tactful style" is used to describe a considerate and diplomatic manner of communication. For instance, "Her tactful style made the difficult conversation much easier".

What are some alternatives to "tactful style"?

You can use alternatives like "diplomatic approach", "sensitive manner", or "discreet method" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to have a "tactful style"?

Having a "tactful style" means communicating in a way that is considerate, diplomatic, and avoids causing offense or discomfort. It involves being aware of others' feelings and choosing words carefully.

When is it appropriate to use a "tactful style"?

A "tactful style" is appropriate in situations where sensitivity and diplomacy are required, such as when giving constructive criticism, resolving conflicts, or discussing delicate topics.