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Synonyms

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.


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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

tactic 2 British  
/ ˈtæktɪk /

noun

  1. a piece of tactics; tactical move See also tactics

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Now podcasts and webinars have spread the word, and lawyers say the tactic is common.

From The Wall Street Journal

Meanwhile, state media have sharply increased broadcasts showcasing missile capabilities - a familiar tactic during periods of heightened tension.

From BBC

Much of the growth came from the sale of newly originated leases to a third party, a new tactic for the company.

From Barron's

“But I think that force, period, should be a last resort. I would appreciate seeing more de-escalation tactics as opposed to use of any sort of force.”

From Los Angeles Times

“That’s an alert to double-check the whole area and maybe we need to switch our tactics.”

From Los Angeles Times