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

Granado-Gomez said voting is an important way to make a change — but refusing to pay taxes is a longtime tactic that goes back to the Founding Fathers, he added.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Talks, deals, and economic relief were in ample evidence, with sanctions used as a negotiating tactic but without a credible threat of force.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

This contrarian rebalancing tactic of selling top performers to pay for new bets adds “modest value over the long run,” writes Trivariate Research President Adam Parker.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

The tactic is infuriating to opposition parties, and many viewers and listeners at home.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

Instead, both Odile and Francis thought the best tactic for getting a foot in the door was to commence French lessons with Pop, whose deceased husband had been the Professor of French before the war.

From "Double Helix" by James D. Watson

Related Words

• ploy