MEANING
Careful to avoid upsetting or embarrassing others while communicating something difficult.
Use it for
Use for considerate speech or restraint around sensitive matters.Show care in how a character handles a delicate subject.
Words that belong together
- tactful reply
- tactful question
- tactful silence
On the page
A tactful question let the witness correct herself without losing face.
Nearby words
Opposite meanings
Word forms
- Base
- tactful
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Usage notes
Tactful concerns socially considerate delivery; it does not necessarily mean evasive or insincere.
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