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Meaning of tactfully
The primary meaning of the word "tactfully" is to do something in a careful and sensitive way so as not to upset or offend anyone.
Etymology of tactfully
The word "tactfully" has its roots in the noun "tact", which originated from the Latin "tactus", meaning "touch" or "sense of touch", and was later influenced by the Old French "tact" or "tacte", meaning "touch, feeling, or skill"
Historically, the word "tact" referred to a keen sense of what to do or say in order to avoid offending someone, and the adverb "tactfully" evolved to describe actions taken with this sense of sensitivity and discretion
Synonyms
Definitions
- In a careful and sensitive way so as not to upset or offend anyone
- * Showing a keen sense of what to do or say in order to avoid offending someone
Usage Examples
- She tactfully avoided mentioning the sensitive topic during the meeting
- * He tactfully steered the conversation away from the controversial issue
- * The diplomat spoke tactfully, trying not to offend either side in the negotiations