tactical

word

/ˈtæktɪkəɫ/
TAK-ti-kuhl
/tˈæktɪkəl/
TAK-ti-kuhl

Definition

Related to carefully planned actions meant to achieve a specific short-term goal, often in military, sports, or strategic situations.

Usage & Nuances

'Tactical' is used in both formal and informal contexts, but often appears in military, business, and sports language. It describes short-term strategies, not long-term plans ('strategic'). Common phrases include 'tactical advantage', 'tactical move', and 'tactical error'. Don't confuse 'tactical' (short-term) with 'strategic' (long-term).

Example Sentences

The coach made a tactical decision to change players.

basic

The army used a tactical plan to win the battle.

basic

They looked for a tactical advantage over their rivals.

basic

Making a tactical move like that really changed the game.

natural

Sometimes you have to be tactical to get what you want at work.

natural

That was a tactical error—they should have planned it differently.

natural