savoir-faire

[ sav-wahr-fair; French sa-vwar-fer ]

noun

1. knowledge of just what to do in any situation; tact.

   Synonyms: adroitness, adaptability, ability, skill, discernment, diplomacy

savoir-faire

/ ˈsævwɑːˈfɛə /

noun

1. the ability to do the right thing in any situation

savoir faire

1. Ease and dexterity in social and practical affairs: “Peter is a friendly person, but he lacks the savoir faire required for a successful career in the foreign service.” From French, meaning “to know how to act.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of savoir-faire¹

1805–15; < French: literally, knowing how to do

Word History and Origins

Origin of savoir-faire¹

French, literally: a knowing how to do

Example Sentences

In later years his savoir faire enabled him to laugh at faith, but it stayed quietly with him all the same.

From Project Gutenberg

Eugene had talent and determination, but no experience, no savoir faire, no circle of friends and acquaintances.

From Project Gutenberg

Rhett, though doubtless bitterly disappointed, bore himself with the savoir faire of a great gentleman.

From Project Gutenberg

He even wondered a little at Nan's savoir-faire, and felt a vague sense of disappointment mingling with his relief.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Whitney, with his savoir faire, was considered one of the best men to send on a quasi political mission.

From Project Gutenberg