tactic

American  

[tak-tik] / ˈtæk tɪk /

noun

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

• nontactic noun

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

Example Sentences

When winds calmed on Friday, helicopters were used to pour water over the area - a tactic meant to mitigate an avalanche risk - authorities said.

From BBC

“This is nothing but scare tactics to get people out of the race,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Barger referenced a former state Assembly speaker known for bare-knuckle tactics, which she said were needed now in the Capitol.

From Los Angeles Times

In multiple Freedom of Information Act suits, the administration is attempting to strike certain facts from the public record, a tactic typically aimed at delaying proceedings.

From Salon

Troop deployments to Russia have also allowed North Korea to receive cash and possibly technical guidance on weapons and tactics.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• ploy