savoir-faire
knowledge of just what to do in any situation; tact.
Origin of savoir-faire
1Other words for savoir-faire
Words Nearby savoir-faire
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use savoir-faire in a sentence
In later years his savoir faire enabled him to laugh at faith, but it stayed quietly with him all the same.
Villa Rubein and Other Stories | John GalsworthyEugene had talent and determination, but no experience, no savoir faire, no circle of friends and acquaintances.
The "Genius" | Theodore DreiserRhett, though doubtless bitterly disappointed, bore himself with the savoir faire of a great gentleman.
The Day of the Confederacy | Nathaniel W. StephensonHe even wondered a little at Nan's savoir-faire, and felt a vague sense of disappointment mingling with his relief.
Name and Fame | Adeline SergeantMr. Whitney, with his savoir faire, was considered one of the best men to send on a quasi political mission.
A Little Girl of Long Ago | Amanda Millie Douglas
British Dictionary definitions for savoir-faire
/ (ˈsævwɑːˈfɛə) /
the ability to do the right thing in any situation
Origin of savoir-faire
1Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Cultural definitions for savoir faire
[ (sav-wahr fair) ]
Ease and dexterity in social and practical affairs: “Peter is a friendly person, but he lacks the savoir faire required for a successful career in the foreign service.” From French, meaning “to know how to act.”
The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
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