Meaning & Definition of word "Tactless"
to
Tactless
/ˈtækt.ləs/
adjective:
- 1. lacking sensitivity or skills in dealing with others; inconsiderate or blunt.
- Example: His tactless comment about her dress made her feel self-conscious.
- 2. showing a lack of thoughtfulness or consideration for others' feelings.
- Example: The tactless manner in which she delivered the bad news upset everyone in the room.
- 3. unskillful in handling social interactions, often leading to awkward or embarrassing situations.
- Example: It was tactless of him to bring up her past mistakes in front of the group.
Etymology
Derived from 'tact' meaning the ability to say the right thing at the right time, with the suffix '-less' indicating the absence of that quality.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tactless remark:
A comment that lacks sensitivity and politeness.
tactless behavior:
Actions that are inappropriate or without consideration for others' feelings.
Related Words
tact:
The ability to deal with others or handle situations without causing offense.
tactful:
Having or showing the ability to say and do the right things in difficult situations.
discretion:
The quality of being discreet or careful in one's speech and actions.
Slang Meanings of tactless
Meaning: socially awkward
Example Sentence: His jokes were really tactless and made the whole room feel awkward.
Meaning: brutally honest
Example Sentence: I appreciate honesty, but that was just tactless.