adj
C1
Advanced
tactful
TAKT-fuhl
Tactful (adj) means Careful and sensitive when dealing with other people, especially in awkward situations. Example: “He gave a tactful response instead of criticizing the plan outright.”
adj
1
Careful and sensitive when dealing with other people, especially in awkward situations.
"He gave a tactful response instead of criticizing the plan outright."
How to use tactful
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishGood at saying or doing things in a way that avoids upsetting people.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more tactful
- Superlative
- most tactful
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He gave a _____ response instead of criticizing the plan outright.
Etymology
From "tact" plus "-ful."
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for tactful
See all rhymes for tactful →Frequently asked questions
What does “tactful” mean?
The word “tactful” means careful and sensitive when dealing with other people, especially in awkward situations. In plain terms, good at saying or doing things in a way that avoids upsetting people.
How do you pronounce “tactful”?
“Tactful” is pronounced TAKT-fuhl (/ˈtæktfəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “tactful” in a sentence?
Here is “tactful” used in a sentence: “He gave a tactful response instead of criticizing the plan outright.”
What part of speech is “tactful”?
“Tactful” is an adjective.
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