tactical

[ tak-ti-kuhl ]

adjective

1. of or relating to tactics, especially the placement of military or naval forces in battle or at the front line of a battle.
2. characterized by skillful tactics or adroit maneuvering or procedure, especially of military or naval forces:

   tactical movements.

3. (of a weapon) short range, as battlefield missiles: Compare strategic ( def 4b ).

   A tactical nuclear weapon would still present significant risks to battlefield troops on both sides of the conflict.

4. of or relating to a maneuver or plan of action designed as an expedient toward gaining a desired end or temporary advantage.
5. expedient; calculated.
6. prudent; politic.

tactical

/ ˈtæktɪkəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or employing tactics

   a tactical error

2. (of weapons, attacks, etc) used in or supporting limited military operations

   tactical bombing

   a tactical missile

3. skilful or diplomatic

   a tactical manoeuvre

Derived Forms

• ˈtactically, adverb

Other Words From

• tac·ti·cal·ly adverb
• non·tac·ti·cal adjective
• non·tac·ti·cal·ly adverb
• un·tac·ti·cal adjective
• un·tac·ti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of tactical¹

First recorded in 1560–70; tactic + -al ¹

Example Sentences

But Dr Miron said while the Kursk incursion was a moment of “tactical brilliance” it has also been a “strategic catastrophe” for Ukraine.

From BBC

Whether it is fitness, lack of tactical finesse or a shortage of bench strength, the fade is real.

From BBC

Jennifer Grasso figured she had a strong case to become the tactical unit’s next leader when the position opened up this year.

From Los Angeles Times

Bellamy is in his element when he is talking about football and its tactical intricacies.

From BBC

Sir Tony said the losses were "for tiny increments of land" but that there was "no doubt that Russia is making tactical, territorial gains and that is putting pressure on Ukraine".

From BBC

Related Words

• diplomatic