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

By analyzing changes in tumor mutations and monitoring cancer biomarkers in bodily fluids, these techniques can help oncologists know when to change tactics and slow the evolution of drug-resistant cells while minimizing toxic side effects.

From Science Daily

These tactics helped shutter nearly 2,200 pharmacies between December 2017 and December 2020, leaving dozens of communities, many of them rural, with limited access to medication.

From Salon

In one case typical of those the BBC investigated, a judge called the firm's tactics “malicious”, referred to “aggressive letters” it had sent and repeatedly commented on the company’s poor management.

From BBC

Stephen Miller, the author of some of Trump’s harshest immigration enforcement tactics, including family separation during his first term, was chosen last week as his deputy chief of staff.

From Los Angeles Times

A young Dominic Cummings was the mastermind behind the victorious No campaign, trying out tactics and messages he would later use in the 2016 Brexit referendum.

From BBC

Related Words

• ploy