tactic

/ˈtæktɪk/
nounIntermediate
formalinformal

A carefully planned action or strategy designed to achieve a specific short-term goal, often in a competitive or challenging situation.

The marketing team used a bold tactic to attract new customers.

The military employed a surprise tactic to gain the upper hand in the battle.

💡

Tactics are often contrasted with 'strategy,' which refers to long-term planning.

Collocations

tactical advantagea short-term advantage gained through careful planningtactical retreata planned withdrawal to avoid defeattactical errora mistake in short-term decision-making

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

tactical votingphrase
voting for a candidate who is not one's first choice to prevent an undesirable outcome
tactical nuclear weaponphrase
a nuclear weapon designed for use on the battlefield rather than against cities

💡Pro Tip

Tactics vs. Strategy

Remember that tactics are the specific actions taken to achieve a goal, while strategy is the overarching plan.

Gold Rule

Precision in Usage

Use 'tactic' when referring to short-term, actionable steps rather than long-term planning.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'tactique,' from Latin 'tacticus,' from Greek 'taktikos,' meaning 'of or relating to arrangement or order.'

📝Usage Notes

While 'tactic' and 'strategy' are often used interchangeably, 'tactic' typically refers to short-term actions, whereas 'strategy' refers to long-term planning.

Word Breakdown

tact-
relating to touch or arrangement
root
+
-ic
pertaining to
suffix
English Dictionary