tactfully
4
4.4
- adverb
- /ˈtæktfəl/
:
con tacto
- As soon as foul play is suspected, the instructor must indirectly and tactfully clear up the situation.
Examples
-
In response, the columnist first tactfully acknowledged the demanding and hectic lives that today's parents lead.
Academic text (2010) -
"I asked her tactfully, not wanting to offend her, why he had gone to another kibbutz."
Fiction book (1993) -
I suppose this is the place where i should tactfully change the subject.
-
And learning how to tactfully talk to him in those moments is going to go a long, long way.
-
There is a way of dealing tactfully with the government and the military.
Academic text (1999) -
Had to proceed tactfully, of course.
-
The article tactfully failed to mention the word "suicide," making do with "unfortunate accident."
Fiction book (1998) -
The counselor tactfully reminds the student that the parent will need to approve any change in the plan.
Academic text (2005) -
During the meeting, she tactfully suggested an alternative approach that made everyone feel respected.
-
He tactfully navigated the sensitive topic, making sure not to hurt anyone's feelings.
Synonyms
372
1.0
To do something with little force to avoid hurting or making noise
108
1.0
In a way that shows respect for other people
101
2.3
In a polite way to someone
44
3.7
Gently and carefully to avoid hurting people or breaking things
41
3.9
In a kind and polite way that shows respect
26
5.5
In a way that avoids upsetting people when you talk to them
12
4.2
In a polite and respectful way
7
6.5
In a careful, thoughtful way that makes good choices
6
7.3
To treat someone very carefully so you do not upset them
5
4.2
In a way that shows care for other people's feelings and needs
4
2.8
In a polite and respectful way
1
3.0
In a way that shows care for other people's feelings and needs
1
8.3
To act carefully after thinking about possible problems and results
In a way that does not upset or hurt people
Antonyms
How Tactful
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Tactfully comes from tact, from Latin tactus meaning 'touch'. Think of it as having a light 'touch' in how you speak — the same idea you see in the word contact. So to act tactfully is to handle people and problems gently so you do not offend.