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 May, CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis said the CIA was applying counterterrorism tactics to what has long been considered a law-enforcement issue.

From The Wall Street Journal

All these tactics, along with many others, are being used by ordinary citizens at the grassroots level throughout the country in cities, downtown metro areas and residential neighborhoods.

From Salon

It feels like Guardiola is looking to strike a balance - wanting his team to pick the right moments to use their exciting, new tactics, while ensuring the control and structure of past seasons remains.

From BBC

Ian Paul, a conservative theologian and a member of the General Synod, denies that this amounted to "strong-arm tactics".

From BBC

Some toys also use tactics to keep kids engaged, which makes parents concerned that the interactions could become addictive.

From Los Angeles Times