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• tactic
  tactic

  noun

  tactics.
• -tactic
  -tactic

  combining form

  having a specified kind of pattern or arrangement or having an orientation determined by a specified force

tactic

American  

[tak-tik] / ˈtæk tɪk /

noun

tactics plural

1. tactics.

2. a system or a detail of tactics.

3. a plan, procedure, or expedient for promoting a desired end or result.

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adjective

1. of or relating to arrangement or order; tactical.

-tactic ¹ British  

combining form

1. having a specified kind of pattern or arrangement or having an orientation determined by a specified force

   syndiotactic

   phototactic

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tactic ² British  

/ ˈtæktɪk /

noun

1. a piece of tactics; tactical move See also tactics

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• nontactic
  noun

Inflected Forms

Nouns

• tactics
  plural

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!

Example Sentences

But, more measured possession in a similar fashion to how DR Congo started the game against England might be a tactic Tuchel's side could look to borrow for their next match.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2026

That uncertainty is pushing companies toward another tactic: paying less per task.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 30, 2026

The common protest tactic had caused severe food, medical and fuel shortages in several cities.

From Barron's • Jun. 22, 2026

Although helicopters and other firefighting aircraft are a common tactic used to combat wildfires, they are rarely deployed to structure fires.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 17, 2026

I myself believed precisely the opposite: that nonviolence was a tactic that should be abandoned when it no longer worked.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Related Words

• ploy