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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

See Examples For:

tactic tactics

But instead, while some players recognised it as the team simply resorting to clearing their lines and regrouping their shape in defence – it was a tactic some didn't agree with.

From BBC ● Jul. 16, 2026

Some industry analysts have suggested that Volkswagen had deliberately publicised the number of 100,000 as a negotiating tactic, and that the final figure of cuts is likely to be lower.

From Barron's ● Jul. 13, 2026

It’s not uncommon for ICE agents to use unmarked cars and wear masks as they attempt arrests, and advocacy groups say the tactic means people often aren’t aware that it’s federal agents detaining them.

From Salon ● Jul. 9, 2026

They speculated that his bid for Canada was a negotiating tactic aimed at “price discovery.”

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 8, 2026

Resorting to a favorite tactic, they arranged a special vacation for the family living in the apartment above Penkovsky.

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin

In fresh comments given to British newspapers, Tuchel was asked in detail about the tactics and approach.

From BBC ● Jul. 16, 2026

She’s now considering new tactics to catch the attention of hiring managers.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 15, 2026

Other uses included using AI to study battlefield tactics that could lead to reduced casualties, an ex-ISWAP militant said.

From Barron's ● Jul. 13, 2026

And Ukrainian units have developed new tactics that combine infantry and drones to conduct counterattacks.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 11, 2026

She looked at his beautiful face, twisted now with rage and frustration, and suddenly she changed her tactics.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck

Related Words

• ploy