savoir faire

noun

Definition of savoir fairenext
as in charm
formal the ability to behave in a correct and confident way in different situations I admire her sophistication and savoir faire. He handled the problem with his usual savoir faire.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Example 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 personalized presentation of the liquid, and the experiences surrounding it, are an apt celebration of Martell’s 309 years and counting of tradition, heritage, and savoir faire. —Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 11 Oct. 2024 When the world’s top luxury brands pour their savoir faire into Advent calendars, the results are—predictably—the height of luxury. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 17 Sep. 2024 London is also, unsurprisingly, a wonderful place to source nightwear given the sartorial savoir faire of Savile Row and Jermyn Street. —Caroline Reilly, Robb Report, 19 Aug. 2024 Equestrian events on the grounds of Versailles! — and undeniable savoir faire, may just have helped save the Olympics. —Bryan Walsh, Vox, 9 Aug. 2024 See All Example Sentences for savoir faire
Recent Examples of Synonyms for savoir faire
  1. charm
  2. sensitivity
  3. gallantry
  4. grace
  5. manners
  6. courtesy
Noun
  • The standout pieces are the charms, each symbolizing significant moments in her life.
    — Mecca Pryor, Essence, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Among the charms selected by Tyla, each holds a significant meaning.
    — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of charm
Noun
  • Millions of Americans experience food sensitivities or food allergies every year.
    — Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025
  • Grider recommends that those with extreme eye sensitivity or eye conditions consult a licensed esthetician before booking an appointment.
    — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 2 Apr. 2025
Definition of sensitivity
Noun
  • Great gallantry April 5th is known as Go for Broke Day.
    — Kurt Snibbe, Oc Register, 3 Apr. 2025
  • Queen Victoria created the unit in 1900 after an adviser suggested that the Irish regiments should wear shamrocks on their headdress every St. Patrick's Day as a nod to the crown's appreciation for their gallantry during the Boer War, the British Army said.
    — Janine Henni, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025
Definition of gallantry
Noun
  • Glide, double jump, wall run, and zipline across landscapes with all the grace of a Jedi in Respawn's Star Wars games.
    — PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 3 Apr. 2025
  • Embrace the clarity and freedom that come with breaking through these limiting beliefs. March 2025 Five of Swords: Conflicts may arise this month, Scorpio, testing your ability to navigate power dynamics with grace and a level of unbotheredness that most don’t expect from you.
    — Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Apr. 2025
Definition of grace
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
Definition of manners
Noun
  • The deep space asteroid that recently made headlines for its potential to collide with Earth received its own photoshoot courtesy of NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope.
    — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 3 Apr. 2025
  • The very act of looking up from your phone or notes can signal courtesy and enthusiasm.
    — Bala Sathyanarayanan, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025
Definition of courtesy

Browse Nearby Words

saviors
savoir faire
savor
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Cite this Entry

“Savoir faire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/savoir%20faire. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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