What does tactic mean?
A tactic is a particular action, move, or method intended to achieve a broader goal. It usually denotes a concrete step in dealing with a conflict, contest, negotiation, or practical problem, rather than the complete plan for reaching the desired outcome. For example, a negotiator may change the order in which issues are presented as a tactic, while the overall approach to the agreement constitutes the strategy. The word is neutral in many contexts but can carry a critical edge when it describes a maneuver perceived as deceptive, obstructive, or merely expedient. Its usefulness lies in drawing attention to the smaller decisions through which a plan is carried out. “Tactics” is also common when referring to an organized set of such actions or to a general method of doing business. The singular therefore emphasizes an individual maneuver, whereas the plural often suggests an overall way of acting, especially in military, political, or competitive settings.
nounA tactic is a specific action or method used to achieve a larger objective, especially in conflict, competition, or negotiation. A tactic is typically one step within a broader strategy.
- A specific action, move, or method used to achieve a broader objective.
"The team adopted a new tactic to prevent their opponents from making easy progress."
"Dividing the audience was an effective tactic for sustaining their interest."
"The committee considered delaying the vote a useful negotiating tactic."
The plural is common when referring to an organized set of actions or to a general method of acting, especially in military, political, business, or competitive contexts.
"The side won through superior tactics and steady execution."
A tactic is a piece of strategy—but its ancient ancestor, taxis, means “arrangement,” because tactics began as the art of arranging troops.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does tactic come from?
The word entered English in the early 17th century from French tactique, a borrowing of Greek taktikos, meaning “of or relating to arrangement.” Greek taktikos derived from taxis, meaning “arrangement” or “order.” In its early military sense, the word referred to the art of arranging troops, before developing into its modern meaning of an individual method or maneuver used to achieve an objective.
Related word forms
How tactic is actually used
The word is neutral in many contexts but can suggest manipulation or deception when used of an expedient or obstructive move. In the plural, “tactics” often denotes an organized method of acting rather than a single maneuver.
Easily confused with tactic
A strategy is the overall plan for achieving an objective, whereas a tactic is a particular action used to advance that plan.