# tactful

/ˈtæktfəɫ/ (US) · /tˈæktfəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tactful
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

careful not to say or do things that could upset or embarrass other people. You are being this when you handle a difficult situation with kindness and skill.

For teachers: showing sensitivity and skill in dealing with others or with difficult issues. Often used to describe communication that avoids giving offence while remaining honest.

## Examples

- He gave a tactful answer to the difficult question.
- The manager was very tactful when she told him that his performance needed to improve.
- Diplomats must remain tactful even during heated negotiations, as a single poorly chosen word could derail months of progress toward a peaceful resolution.

## Synonyms

diplomatic, considerate

## Antonyms

tactless, insensitive, inconsiderate, Blunt

## Usage notes

- Commonly used to describe people, remarks, or behavior; often follows linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'remain'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.