Tact
Tact
Tact (/tækt/), from the Latin tactus meaning 'touch', is a term used in psychology and communication studies to describe the ability to deal with sensitive situations or difficult people in a manner that avoids causing offense.
Definition
Tact is a form of interpersonal sensitivity and refers to the ability to appropriately respond to social situations. It involves understanding the social norms and expectations of a situation and responding in a way that respects these norms and avoids causing discomfort or offense. Tact is often associated with diplomacy, discretion, and social grace.
Etymology
The term 'tact' originates from the Latin word tactus, which means 'touch'. This etymology reflects the metaphorical sense of the word, as someone with tact is said to have a 'touch' for dealing with people and situations in a sensitive and effective manner.
Related Terms
- Diplomacy: The art of dealing with people in a sensitive and effective way.
- Discretion: The quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offense or revealing private information.
- Social Grace: The skills used to interact politely in social situations.
- Interpersonal Sensitivity: The ability to accurately perceive and respond to the feelings and needs of others.
- Communication: The act of conveying meanings from one entity or group to another through the use of mutually understood signs, symbols, and semiotic rules.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tact
- Wikipedia's article - Tact
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