tactics

[ tak-tiks ]

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) Linguistics.
   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.

tactics

/ 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

Derived Forms

• tacˈtician, noun

Other Words From

• counter·tactics noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tactics¹

First recorded in 1620–30; tactic, -ics

Word History and Origins

Origin of tactics¹

C17: from New Latin tactica, from Greek ta taktika the matters of arrangement, neuter plural of taktikos concerning arrangement or order, from taktos arranged (for battle), from tassein to arrange

Synonym Study

See strategy.

Example Sentences

Now organizations across California are mobilizing the same tactics to prepare for another Trump administration.

From Los Angeles Times

Maresca has already had to rise to challenges that do not have to do with tactics.

From BBC

Senior party members acknowledged their tactics had been too cautious and could have won more seats if they had run more candidates.

From BBC

Sutter said law enforcement used to be able to better track down these gatherings off of public social media posts, but tactics have changed, making it difficult to anticipate where the next takeover might happen.

From Los Angeles Times

As Salon previously reported, some believe these tactics could backfire.

From Salon