tactfully

Thân thiện

He offered his criticism tactfully to avoid hurting her feelings.

Definition

Adverb 1. In a way that shows sensitivity and skill in dealing with others, especially to avoid giving offense or causing upset. * It describes the manner of acting or speaking with consideration for people's feelings and the demands of a social situation.

Usage

The adverb "tactfully" modifies a verb, describing how an action is performed. It is used to praise or describe a careful, diplomatic, and considerate approach to communication or action.

Examples

• She tactfully suggested a different approach to the project without criticizing his original idea.
• The manager tactfully handled the customer's complaint, ensuring they felt heard and valued.
• He tactfully avoided discussing politics at the dinner party to prevent an argument.
• "Perhaps we should reconsider the timeline," she said tactfully.

Advanced Usage

• Used to describe indirect communication: Often implies choosing words or actions that are polite and indirect to spare someone's feelings or maintain harmony.
  • He tactfully hinted that the report needed more work, rather than bluntly calling it inadequate.
• Implies social skill: Using "tactfully" suggests the actor possesses social intelligence and awareness.
  • A good host tactfully navigates conversations to include all guests.

Variants and Related Words

• Tactful (adjective): Having or showing tact.
  • She gave a tactful response.
• Tact (noun): The ability to deal with others without causing offense.
  • He handled the situation with great tact.
• Tactfulness (noun): The quality of being tactful.
  • Her tactfulness defused the tension.

Synonyms

• Diplomatically
• Discreetly
• Sensitively
• Politely
• Judiciously

Antonyms

• Tactlessly
• Bluntly
• Indiscreetly
• Insensitively
• Clumsily

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To handle (something) with kid gloves: To deal with a person or situation very gently and carefully. This is a near-synonymous idiom.
  • You need to handle that topic with kid gloves; it's very sensitive.
• To tread carefully: To act with great caution to avoid causing trouble or offense. This describes a similar cautious approach.
  • When discussing salaries, it's best to tread carefully.

Học thuật

Adverb

1. showing tact or tactfulness; in a tactful manner
   • he stepped tactfully in to prevent trouble