Synonym Chooser

How is the word politic different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of politic are bland, diplomatic, smooth, suave, and urbane. While all these words mean "pleasantly tactful and well-mannered," politic implies shrewd as well as tactful and suave handling of people.

a cunningly politic manager

When could bland be used to replace politic?

The synonyms bland and politic are sometimes interchangeable, but bland emphasizes mildness of manner and absence of irritating qualities.

a bland master of ceremonies

When is diplomatic a more appropriate choice than politic?

While the synonyms diplomatic and politic are close in meaning, diplomatic stresses an ability to deal with ticklish situations tactfully.

a diplomatic negotiator

When might smooth be a better fit than politic?

The words smooth and politic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, smooth suggests often a deliberately assumed suavity.

a smooth salesman

When can suave be used instead of politic?

In some situations, the words suave and politic are roughly equivalent. However, suave suggests a specific ability to deal with others easily and without friction.

a suave public relations coordinator

When is it sensible to use urbane instead of politic?

While in some cases nearly identical to politic, urbane implies high cultivation and poise coming from wide social experience.

an urbane traveler

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of politic Fox News is not exactly known for their nuanced (or accurate) takes on politic discourse. refinery29.com, 13 Aug. 2020 Again, the park ranger pondered the most politic response. Jesse Ashlock, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Mar. 2022 For his part, Márki-Zay didn’t give the most politic concession speech. John Fund, National Review, 5 Apr. 2022 But some of those friends were decidedly less politic when contacted by a reporter. New York Times, 16 Oct. 2021 See all Example Sentences for politic 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for politic
Adjective
  • The Palace manager was asked about Chalobah’s absence in his post-match media conference at Selhurst Park and offered an admirably diplomatic response.
    Liam Twomey, The Athletic, 14 Jan. 2025
  • The year ahead in Ukraine has given rise to wild, perhaps wilful, positivity from Kyiv and – publicly at least – in parts of NATO that the incoming Trump White House can effect meaningful, diplomatic change.
    Nick Paton Walsh, CNN, 14 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Choi has similarly spoken about the importance of handling the delicate situation in a prudent manner that avoids sparking wider unrest.
    Timothy Nerozzi, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 10 Jan. 2025
  • The Chiefs made the call before their game that kicked off at 3:25 p.m. Central Time that remaining in Denver was the prudent move.
    Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 6 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • According to a Newsweek article, simple gestures like being polite to airline staff can significantly improve a travel experience.
    Michael Gfoeller And David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025
  • Ahead of Trump’s swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 20, he and Melania Trump are expected to be greeted at the White House by Joe and Jill Biden, who will then bring them inside for some tea or coffee and perhaps some polite conversation.
    Martha Ross, The Mercury News, 14 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • This is a tactical and strategic approach to shaping culture.
    Samantha Tassone, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025
  • The rookie showrunner and Washington’s managing partner, Josh Harris, sought a motivating and tactical individual to lead the team’s daily tasks.
    Ben Standig, The Athletic, 8 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • This decision reflects our collective commitment to fostering a collaborative, equitable, and respectful work environment.
    Katie Campione, Deadline, 14 Jan. 2025
  • Leaders should consistently model respectful and inclusive behaviors, demonstrating how to handle conflict constructively while recognizing the contributions of others.
    Sandy Harvey, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Find someone who can be a sounding board and wise adviser with high mutual trust.
    Gregory Crawford, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025
  • In one version of the manuscript, Anna’s father is a wise werewolf.
    Katy Waldman, The New Yorker, 6 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The thinking behind this strategy is flawed; however, studios validate feelings that might be misplaced rather than make a tactful argument for why musicals deserve a place on your watchlist.
    Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 20 Nov. 2024
  • Maintaining transparency, while being tactful throughout your job search, is key to showcasing integrity and distinguishing yourself as a candidate who won’t bolt at the next opportunity.
    Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Today, Florentine gilded wood is still desirable, particularly among designers.
    Heather Bien, Southern Living, 10 Jan. 2025
  • This was once a highly desirable area, where rich sea merchants bought mansions on Judges Drive.
    Simon Hughes, The Athletic, 9 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near politic

Cite this Entry

“Politic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/politic. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on politic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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