be tactful
/biː ˈtæktfəl/To express oneself in a way that is sensitive to others' feelings and avoids causing offense.
He was always tactful when discussing sensitive topics with clients.
He handled delicate subjects with care and respect.
Being tactful means choosing your words carefully to avoid hurting someone's feelings.
It involves being mindful of how your words might affect others.
Tactfulness is often required in professional, social, and interpersonal settings.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Practice Active Listening
Pay attention to others' reactions to gauge how your words are being received.
Use Positive Framing
Instead of saying 'You did this wrong,' try 'Here’s a better way to approach this.'
⚡Gold Rule
Prioritize Empathy
Always consider how your words might make others feel before speaking.
📖Word Origin
From the noun 'tact,' which comes from the Latin 'tactus,' meaning 'touch' or 'sense of touch.' The phrase emphasizes the ability to 'feel' or sense others' emotions.
📝Usage Notes
Being tactful is essential in communication to maintain harmony and respect. It often involves avoiding direct criticism and framing feedback positively.