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 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
  • From the aristocratic charm of Fiona Cambell Walter (later Baroness Thyssen) in the early 1950s, to the waiflike spontaneity of Twiggy in 1967, and later the full-on glamour of the 1980s with Jerry Hall and Iman together in Louis Feraud furs.
    Emma Baxter-Wright, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
  • This unique decor piece, featuring 15 oversized harmony cowbells, is handcrafted to deliver vintage charm and serves as a striking conversation starter, enhancing any space with its distinctive style.
    Hyphensocial Contributors, Rolling Stone, 20 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • The setup process guides the listener through a calibration process that fine-tunes the audio output based on the sensitivity of each ear.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024
  • This part of the label is extremely important for identifying food allergens and sensitivities.
    Jonathan Purtell, Verywell Health, 25 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
  • The Paragon was one of few splits reliable enough to navigate through the garbage with a semblance of grace, all while encouraging riders to throw little spins, ride switch, and pop off rock-hard pillows without too much concern for landing stability.
    Outside Editors, Outside Online, 11 Nov. 2024
  • Crazy weather graces Neptune’s skies The gas giants might be famous for having the largest storms in the solar system, but Neptune holds the title for having the fastest winds.
    Shi En Kim, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Austen’s 1813 novel of manners remains a household name, a beloved work of literature and the basis of numerous film and television adaptations and reimaginings.
    Ella Feldman, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Oct. 2024
  • Tacos hold a special place in Phoenix's food culture, with multiple shops and trucks across the Valley earning the love of Arizona residents through all manners to serve the popular dish, from birria to carne asada to calabacitas.
    Laura Daniella Sepulveda, The Arizona Republic, 1 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • Yet all the growing mounds of evidence and ever more refined expertise can’t make up for a stubborn disjunction separating design, courtesy, and compliance.
    Justin Davidson, Curbed, 13 Nov. 2024
  • Whatever was going on inside fell far short of the perks being offered outside, like cinnamon buns courtesy of trendy Buns From Home, lattes from Café Kitsuné and even monogrammed water bottles.
    Avani Thakkar, refinery29.com, 28 Oct. 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 30 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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