savoir-faire
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: * Social skill; the ability to act appropriately and effectively in social situations. It refers to a polished, confident, and tactful manner in dealing with people, often implying a sophisticated understanding of social customs and etiquette.
Usage
- "Savoir-faire" is an uncountable noun. It describes a general quality or skill, not a specific action.
- It is used in formal or sophisticated contexts to praise someone's social competence and grace.
- It is often preceded by adjectives like "natural," "innate," "considerable," or "diplomatic."
Examples
- As a host, she handled the difficult guest with remarkable savoir-faire.
- His savoir-faire in business negotiations is legendary; he always knows the right thing to say.
- The ambassador's savoir-faire helped to ease the tensions during the diplomatic reception.
Advanced Usage
- "To have savoir-faire": To possess this social skill.
- She has the savoir-faire to navigate any high-society event.
- "To demonstrate/show savoir-faire": To display this skill through one's actions.
- He demonstrated considerable savoir-faire by discreetly resolving the conflict.
Variants and Related Words
- Savoir-vivre (n): A related French term meaning "knowing how to live," often referring to good manners and knowledge of etiquette in daily life, closely associated with .
Synonyms
- Social grace: Polished manners and behavior in social settings.
- Tact: Sensitivity and skill in dealing with others to avoid giving offense.
- Poise: Graceful and elegant bearing in a person, especially under pressure.
- Finesse: Impressive delicacy and skill in handling a situation.
- Urbanity: Suave, courteous, and refined manner.
Antonyms
- Awkwardness: Lack of social grace or skill.
- Gaucheness: Lack of social experience or grace; tactlessness.
- Ineptitude: Lack of skill or ability, especially in social contexts.
Idioms and Phrases
- "The height of savoir-faire": Used to describe an action that exemplifies perfect social skill.
- Sending a handwritten thank-you note is considered the height of savoir-faire.