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
  • Maybe the charm of an Arts and Crafts bungalow needs to go without flammable cedar shingles.
    Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 12 Jan. 2025
  • Zendaya wasn't the only one to fall for the charm of thick bangs.
    Michel Mejía, Glamour, 12 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Bank supervisors globally have a framework to assess banks’ capital, asset quality, management, earnings, liquidity and sensitivity to market risk.
    Mayra Rodriguez Valladares, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025
  • Some individuals attached to the Trump administration wanted to remove Mr. Barr before his term as vice chair expired, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on background because of the sensitivity of the issue.
    Deborah B. Solomon, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • There is a back story to Crazy Horse's battlefield gallantry.
    Chip Bell, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024
  • 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
Noun
  • Ancient colors are cultivated in the Jorda rug—the product’s copper splotches mimic both erosion and painterly grace—while the Lydos rug feature a bright glyph motif.
    Maya Ibbitson, Architectural Digest, 9 Jan. 2025
  • At a more functional and financially stable club, the 19-year-old would be given the time and grace to develop his game at his own pace.
    Carl Anka, The Athletic, 8 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • After seeing how reluctant to move the horse was, their older sibling decided to jump in and help delay their owner's departure—albeit, with much gentler manners.
    Dan Perry, Newsweek, 3 Jan. 2025
  • For more on how to lose your clothes but not your manners, have a look at our perennial guide to nude beach etiquette.
    CNN, The Mercury News, 30 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Hathaway continued the gold color motif with her heels, opting for a pair courtesy of Loubiloo.
    Julia Teti, WWD, 9 Jan. 2025
  • In Tagovailoa’s absence, the Dolphins looked terrible, dropping three of four games, including an embarrassing 31-12 thumping courtesy of the lowly Tennessee Titans.
    C. Isaiah Smalls II, Miami Herald, 7 Jan. 2025

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 18 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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