savoir faire

Synonym Chooser

How is the word savoir faire different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of savoir faire are address, poise, and tact. While all these words mean "skill and grace in dealing with others," savoir faire is likely to stress worldly experience and a sure awareness of what is proper or expedient.

the savoir faire of a seasoned traveler

When would address be a good substitute for savoir faire?

While the synonyms address and savoir faire are close in meaning, address stresses dexterity and grace in dealing with new and trying situations and may imply success in attaining one's ends.

brought it off with remarkable address

When is it sensible to use poise instead of savoir faire?

The words poise and savoir faire are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, poise may imply both tact and address but stresses self-possession and ease in meeting difficult situations.

answered the accusations with unruffled poise

When can tact be used instead of savoir faire?

Although the words tact and savoir faire have much in common, tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate.

questions showing a lack of tact

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 savoir faire Equestrian events on the grounds of Versailles! — and undeniable savoir faire, may just have helped save the Olympics. Bryan Walsh, Vox, 9 Aug. 2024 The ateliers were set free post the revolutions, the guilds were abolished and there was this enormous growth of the French know-how, a savoir faire. Funmi Fetto, Vogue, 11 June 2024 Del Rey’s striking look referenced an archival Alexander McQueen design from the house’s fall 2006 collection; McGirr wanted to celebrate the savoir faire of the atelier in a new, contemporary way. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 7 May 2024 Learn the art of French savoir faire from local tastemakers. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 22 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for savoir faire 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for savoir faire
Noun
  • From the coastal charm of Newport Beach, California, to the historic streets of New Bern, North Carolina, local interpretations of SantaCon have sprouted up in dozens of locations.
    Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 14 Dec. 2024
  • No matter your travel style or budget, Avila Beach offers the perfect place to rest, recharge, and revel in the charm of the Central Coast.
    Cliff Lewis, Orange County Register, 13 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Symptoms include headaches, muscle and joint pain, chills, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light.
    Geraldine Castro, WIRED, 20 Dec. 2024
  • Instead, its vivid, expressive prose also explores how aesthetic beauty can cover stomach-churning abuse, while Lin’s rich literary allusions reveal her sensitivity to language and her critical interest in developing a Taiwanese cultural heritage.
    The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 20 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Bob earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action when Japanese kamikaze bombers struck his ship, USS Franklin.
    Karen Scanlon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Feb. 2024
  • For the next 40 years, not one of the seven Medal of Honor candidates cited for their gallantry in Cambodia or Laos received it.
    Barry Barnett, Hartford Courant, 26 May 2024
Noun
  • Holguín Caro and Andy Sierra’s script tries to shuttle between these various subplots with grace.
    Manuel Betancourt, Variety, 21 Dec. 2024
  • Even if the tension can’t sustain itself for the entire film, the performances hold Heretic together, with Grant masterfully weaponizing his fumbling charm and East finding grace in a character balancing her unwavering faith with her survival instinct.
    Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 19 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • These evenings were an occasion to dress up and try out my best manners.
    Brennan Long, Southern Living, 20 Dec. 2024
  • Your social manners are non-existent.
    Ticked Off, Orlando Sentinel, 17 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • In fact, some of the funniest Scranton branch shenanigans come courtesy of the Party Planning Committee and itsDunder Mifflin Christmas party.
    Aurelie Corinthios, People.com, 21 Dec. 2024
  • Penn State added another touchdown, again courtesy of a pick-six.
    Gord Magill, Newsweek, 21 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near savoir faire

Cite this Entry

“Savoir faire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/savoir%20faire. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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