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View synonyms for savoir-faire

savoir-faire

[ sav-wahr-fair; French sa-vwar-fer ]

noun

  1. knowledge of just what to do in any situation; tact.

    Synonyms: adroitness, adaptability, ability, skill, discernment, diplomacy



savoir-faire

/ ˈsævwɑːˈfɛə /

noun

  1. the ability to do the right thing in any situation
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


savoir faire

  1. Ease and dexterity in social and practical affairs: “Peter is a friendly person, but he lacks the savoir faire required for a successful career in the foreign service.” From French, meaning “to know how to act.”


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Word History and Origins

Origin of savoir-faire1

1805–15; < French: literally, knowing how to do
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Word History and Origins

Origin of savoir-faire1

French, literally: a knowing how to do
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Example Sentences

In later years his savoir faire enabled him to laugh at faith, but it stayed quietly with him all the same.

Eugene had talent and determination, but no experience, no savoir faire, no circle of friends and acquaintances.

Rhett, though doubtless bitterly disappointed, bore himself with the savoir faire of a great gentleman.

He even wondered a little at Nan's savoir-faire, and felt a vague sense of disappointment mingling with his relief.

Mr. Whitney, with his savoir faire, was considered one of the best men to send on a quasi political mission.

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Savoiesavoir-vivre