tactic
noun
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tactic
American
[tak-tik]
/ ˈtæk tɪk /
noun
-
a system or a detail of tactics.
-
a plan, procedure, or expedient for promoting a desired end or result.
adjective
-tactic
1
British
combining form
tactic
2
British
/ ˈtæktɪk /
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of tactic
First recorded in 1560–70; New Latin tacticus, from Greek taktikós “fit for arranging or ordering,” from tak-, base of tássein ( Attic táttein ) “to arrange, put in order” + -tikos -tic
Explanation
Tactic is another word for a maneuver or method. If begging doesn't convince your parents to raise your allowance, you might want to try a different tactic—like doing all your chores without being asked. English-speakers have been talking about tactics since at least 1640, when this word was first recorded. A tactic is just a way to do something, a plan, or an approach. Generals have to have a good grasp on military tactics to win a battle; football teams have to use strong defensive tactics to keep the other guys from scoring. One time-tested tactic for winning over a teacher? Always turn your homework in on time!
Vocabulary lists containing tactic
100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 9
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Word Generation Social Studies - Ancient Civilizations of Egypt, Greece, Rome
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Silent Tactic qualified for the Derby but several days before the race, scratched from the competition due to a foot issue.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026
Silent Tactic was scheduled to break from the No. 13 post.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026
The New York Times’ first headline on de Blasio’s request to Gov. Andrew Cuomo for authorization to issue emergency bonds was, “Virus Forces N.Y.C. to Consider Tactic That Nearly Led To Ruin in ‘75.”
From Slate • Sep. 25, 2020
So he's started a weekly Instagram show called Distraction Tactic, and it's all about films rather than music.
From BBC • Apr. 24, 2020
Tactic truly worthy of savages to prepare for victory by expecting a defeat!
From Personal Narrative of a Pilgrimage to Al-Madinah & Meccah — Volume 2 by Burton, Richard Francis, Sir
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
