tactics

[ tak-tiks ]
/ ˈtæk tɪks /

noun

(usually used with a singular verb) the art or science of disposing military or naval forces for battle and maneuvering them in battle.
(used with a plural verb) the maneuvers themselves.
(used with a singular verb) any mode of procedure for gaining advantage or success.
(usually used with a singular verb) Linguistics.
  1. the patterns in which the elements of a given level or stratum in a language may combine to form larger constructions.
  2. the study and description of such patterns.

Origin of tactics

First recorded in 1620–30; see origin at tactic, -ics

synonym study for tactics

1. See strategy.

OTHER WORDS FROM tactics

coun·ter·tac·tics, noun

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH tactics

tactic tactics strategy tactics

Definition for tactics (2 of 2)

tactic
[ tak-tik ]
/ ˈtæk tɪk /

noun

a system or a detail of tactics.
a plan, procedure, or expedient for promoting a desired end or result.

adjective

of or relating to arrangement or order; tactical.

Origin of tactic

1560–70; New Latin tacticus < Greek taktikós “fit for arranging or ordering,” equivalent to tak- (base of tássein (Attic táttein) “to arrange, put in order”) + -tikos -tic

OTHER WORDS FROM tactic

non·tac·tic, noun, adjective

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH tactic

tactic tactics stratagem tactic

Example sentences from the Web for tactics

British Dictionary definitions for tactics (1 of 2)

tactics
/ (ˈtæktɪks) /

pl n

(functioning as singular) military the art and science of the detailed direction and control of movement or manoeuvre of forces in battle to achieve an aim or task
the manoeuvres used or plans followed to achieve a particular short-term aim

Derived forms of tactics

tactician, noun

Word Origin for tactics

C17: from New Latin tactica, from Greek ta taktika the matters of arrangement, neuter plural of taktikos concerning arrangement or order, from taktos arranged (for battle), from tassein to arrange

British Dictionary definitions for tactics (2 of 2)

tactic
/ (ˈtæktɪk) /

noun

a piece of tactics; tactical move See also tactics