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

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 Powered by the brand’s Calibre 2460 automatic movement with 40 hours of power reserve, these stunning pieces are top-shelf collector’s items that bring together the very best aspects of Vacheron Constantin’s savoir faire. Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2025 Compelling for their incredible micro-engineering and aesthetics, QPs draw attention to the brand’s savoir faire and act as a calling card for its capabilities as a watchmaker. Oren Hartov, Robb Report, 25 Feb. 2025 Carefully removing and preserving wall panels from estates and palaces and replicating them with masterful French savoir faire is what has driven the Féau Boiseries’ popularity in the upper echelons of society for the past 150 years. Sofia Celeste, WWD, 30 Jan. 2025 The latest in Van Cleef & Arpels’s historic line of precious decorative objects, this one-of-a-kind piece is at once a feat of artisanal savoir faire and a flourish of figurative artistry. Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 18 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for savoir faire
Recent Examples of Synonyms for savoir faire
Noun
  • Lily Hall and Celestine Bed & Breakfast both deliver boutique charm and thoughtful extras.
    Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 13 July 2025
  • The track bursts with a childlike charm and endearing lyrics, written in part by members Sunwoo and Eric. 10.
    Jeff Benjamin, Forbes.com, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • The new price cap on Russian crude will remain flexible in line with market dynamics and will be set at just above 47 dollars per barrel at current market prices, according to four European officials who spoke to CNBC on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the topic.
    Ruxandra Iordache, CNBC, 18 July 2025
  • The Justice Department has cited the need to protect the identities of victims and witnesses, along with the sensitivity of grand jury materials, as reasons for withholding additional evidence.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 July 2025
Noun
  • The convergence of reason and gallantry, of irony and affection, struck a teasing tone.
    Merve Emre, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
  • Written with filmmaker Matt Yoka, Possession marries the Band’s Americana with T. Rex’s fuzzy glam, anchored by Segall’s always-stellar guitar gallantry.
    Dan Reilly, Vulture, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • The angels who remained received God’s illuminating grace and, as a result, their will and His are one.
    Mary Jo Bang July 9, Literary Hub, 9 July 2025
  • Jordan Johnson of Little Rock, president of JPJ Consulting, said a photo of Anderson’s Labrador retriever graces the boxes of Fiocchi shotgun duck hunting shells.
    arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • This is not so much a question of good manners as good visibility.
    Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Minding your manners will make the trip better for everyone.
    Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 12 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The royal family’s official website explains that there are no strict codes of conduct for meeting royals, only suggested traditional courtesies.
    Janine Henni, People.com, 8 July 2025
  • The latest warning comes courtesy of ThreatFabric, which has been tracking Anatsa for years.
    Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Savoir faire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/savoir%20faire. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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