tactic

[ tak-tik ]

noun

1. tactics ( def 1 ).
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

/ ˈtæktɪk /

noun

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

-tactic

²

combining form

1. having a specified kind of pattern or arrangement or having an orientation determined by a specified force

   syndiotactic

   phototactic

Other Words From

• non·tactic noun adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tactic¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of tactic¹

from Greek taktikos relating to order or arrangement; see tactics

Example Sentences

Though cities and states set their own homeless policies, the federal government controls most of the money and can shift the balance by tying grant money to requirements that force localities to shift tactics.

From Los Angeles Times

The tactics used at the time — deforestation and afforestation, cutting off water supplies, raids on Palestinian communities — are still being applied today, with the addition of 21st-century weapons and a far more sophisticated state apparatus.

From Salon

The government has also said it wants to use counter-terrorism tactics to tackle people-smuggling gangs, with new powers to trace suspects' movements and freeze their bank accounts.

From BBC

Last year, she filed suit against the church, seeking to end what she said were the “mob-style tactics” it had used to harass and defame her.

From New York Times

He said he views tariffs mostly as a negotiating tactic and noted Trump has put forth other proposals that could reduce mortgage rates by decreasing inflation and deficits.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ploy