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 of savoir faire in a Sentence

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Recent Examples on the Web 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 The family had brilliant old Cognac in the cellar and knew all the production secrets (the fabled French savoir faire), but sales had stalled. Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 19 Aug. 2023 See all Example Sentences for savoir faire 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for savoir faire
Noun
  • Mermaid Governed by the love planet Venus, Libra's are known for their irresistible charm and romantic ideals, which go hand-in-hand with Halsey’s otherworldly mermaid look.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 28 Oct. 2024
  • Tamarack Resort, Idaho Tamarack Resort is a blend of rustic charm and modern luxuries.
    Roger Sands, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • Those of us with sensory sensitivity (which is most of us, plus anyone dealing with fatigue, anxiety or pain) find that commuting dramatically drains our reserves.
    Nancy Doyle, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
  • But, grounded by the strength and sensitivity Guaita brings to the lead role, this Like Water for Chocolate is something at least as precious: a melodrama whose extreme emotions are tied to incisive ideas.
    Judy Berman, TIME, 1 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • 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
  • Superheroes have long been depicted wearing capes, which symbolize gallantry and underscore the fanciful nature of the superhero genre.
    Greg Hanlon, Peoplemag, 25 Apr. 2024
Noun
  • While the show nails his glow-up from being a cowardly yakuza to becoming a major player in the Tojo clan, the climax fumbles his fall from grace by devolving his menace and inner turmoil into cartoonish villainy in the show’s finale.
    Isaiah Colbert, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2024
  • Each design reflects timeless beauty and modern femininity, empowering women to embrace their confidence and grace on every occasion.
    Emily Mercer, WWD, 23 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • Another memorable part of the film is a gory zombie animation sequence courtesy of Elliott-Knowles.
    Georg Szalai, The Hollywood Reporter, 4 Nov. 2024
  • Here are 25 places and activities that can help keep your nerves in check, courtesy of my colleague Deborah Vankin.
    Hunter Clauss, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 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 8 Nov. 2024.

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