tact

/ˈtakt/

French, sense of touch, from Latin tactus, from tangere to touch

noun

  1. a keen sense of what to do or say in order to maintain good relations with others or avoid offense

  2. sensitive mental or aesthetic perception

tact address poise savoir faire mean skill and grace in dealing with others. tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate. address stresses dexterity and grace in dealing with new and trying situations and may imply success in attaining one's ends.