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

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

Today there are those who are critical of Mr Dangote’s tactics and amid tension with the regulatory authorities, the same accusation has resurfaced when it comes to the supply of fuel in Nigeria.

From BBC