tactless
Tactless (adj) means lacking sensitivity to other people's feelings, often causing unintended offense. Example: “It was tactless to bring up her divorce at the dinner table.”
How to use tactless
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCareless or blunt in a way that hurts or embarrasses people, usually without meaning to.
Word forms
more tactless comparative, most tactless superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was _____ to bring up her divorce at the dinner table.
Etymology
From "tact" plus "-less."
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “tactless” mean?
The word “tactless” means lacking sensitivity to other people's feelings, often causing unintended offense. In plain terms, careless or blunt in a way that hurts or embarrasses people, usually without meaning to.
How do you pronounce “tactless”?
“Tactless” is pronounced TAKT-luhs (/ˈtæktləs/ in IPA).
How do you use “tactless” in a sentence?
Here is “tactless” used in a sentence: “It was tactless to bring up her divorce at the dinner table.”
What is the opposite of “tactless”?
The opposite of “tactless” — its antonyms — is tactful.
What part of speech is “tactless”?
“Tactless” is an adjective.