tactics

American  

[tak-tiks] / ˈtæk tɪks /

noun

1. (usually used with a singular verb) the art or science of disposing military or naval forces for battle and maneuvering them in battle.

2. (used with a plural verb) the maneuvers themselves.

3. (used with a singular verb) any mode of procedure for gaining advantage or success.

4. (usually used with a singular verb)

   1. the patterns in which the elements of a given level or stratum in a language may combine to form larger constructions.

   2. the study and description of such patterns.

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tactics British  

/ ˈtæktɪks /

plural noun

1. (functioning as singular) military the art and science of the detailed direction and control of movement or manoeuvre of forces in battle to achieve an aim or task

2. the manoeuvres used or plans followed to achieve a particular short-term aim

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Related Words

See strategy.

Other Word Forms

• countertactics noun
• tactician noun

Etymology

Origin of tactics

First recorded in 1620–30; tactic, -ics

Example Sentences

In a study my colleagues and I conducted last year, we used a social media model to simulate swarms of inauthentic social media accounts using different tactics to influence a target online community.

From Salon

Peruvian police often use the tactics, disguising their agents in elaborate costumes on occasions such as Valentine's Day, Halloween and Christmas.

From BBC

Because of this, it will take time to fully assess their tactics and truly understand the complexity of the case.

From Los Angeles Times

“This is a monumental achievement for the community who have endured an array of health issues and corporate stalling tactics for far too long,” Newsom said in a statement Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times

Simmering criticism of her tactics exploded during the immigration enforcement surge in Minneapolis, jeopardizing her relationship with the president and her grip on the department.

From The Wall Street Journal