tactics
UK: ˈtæktɪks | US: ˈtæktɪks
n. the art or skill of employing available means to accomplish an end, especially in military or political strategy
n. (singular "tactic") a specific method or maneuver designed to achieve a short-term goal
tactics = tact<touch, arrange> + ics<study or system>
- tact (from Latin tactus, meaning "touch" or "arrangement") evolved to imply skillful handling or adaptation.
- ics (from Greek -ika, denoting a field of study or system) marks the word as a discipline or structured practice.
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Greek taktikē (technē), "art of arrangement," via Late Latin tactica. Originally tied to military troop deployment (literally "how to touch/move forces"), it broadened to any systematic strategy. The morpheme tact reflects precision (like "tactful" adjustments), while ics frames it as a methodical science.
The general’s brilliant tactics secured victory despite fewer troops.
Protest organizers debated the most effective tactics for raising awareness.
In chess, mastering opening tactics is crucial for intermediate players.
The company’s marketing tactics targeted younger demographics.
She criticized the government’s short-term economic tactics as unsustainable.