tactful

UK: ˈtækt.fəl | US: ˈtækt.fəl

Definition

  1. adj. showing skill and sensitivity in dealing with others or avoiding offense

  2. adj. characterized by tact; diplomatic

Structure
tact <sense, skill>ful <full of>
Etymology

tactful = tact<sense, skill> + ful<full of>

  • tact: From Latin tactus ("touch, sense"), derived from tangere ("to touch"). Evolved to mean "keen perception of appropriateness in social situations."
  • ful: An English suffix meaning "full of" or "characterized by," from Old English -full.

Etymology Origin:
The word tactful combines tact (rooted in the Latin idea of "touch" as a metaphor for social sensitivity) with -ful, creating an adjective meaning "full of social skill." The progression reflects how physical "touch" (Latin tactus) became abstracted into interpersonal discernment.

Examples

  1. Her tactful response eased the tension in the room.

  2. He handled the complaint in a tactful manner.

  3. A tactful leader knows when to speak and when to listen.

  4. She gave tactful advice without hurting his feelings.

  5. The diplomat’s tactful negotiations resolved the conflict.