tactfulness

American  

[takt-fuhl-nis] / ˈtækt fəl nɪs /

noun

1. the quality or skill of handling difficult or delicate situations without giving offense.

   Her promotion was based on her influence and tactfulness in dealing with outside vendors, managers, and subordinates.

   Showing what some would consider a certain lack of tactfulness, he declared that the emperor's pious works were of no value whatsoever.

---

Etymology

Origin of tactfulness

tactful ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

Don’t get me wrong here—I’m sure it’s upsetting to listen to your sister-in-law talk trash about your church and religion, but other than the lack of tactfulness, it’s her right to do so.

From Slate • Jun. 22, 2021

They must be greeted with respect, compassion and tactfulness.

From Time Magazine Archive

The ease and tactfulness of the answer saved the situation.

From Forging the Blades A Tale of the Zulu Rebellion by Mitford, Bertram

This rule, summed up more particularly in a series of paternal injunctions and affectionate advice, was a marvel of gentleness and tactfulness.

From The Cathedral by Huysmans, J.-K. (Joris-Karl)

The most that they could hope was by great "tactfulness" to persuade her to be "reasonable" on certain points.

From Shadows of Flames A Novel by Rives, Amélie