tactically
gb/tˈæktɪkəli/ us/tˈæktɪkəli/
C1
English
Senses
0 senses
adverb
C1
property
1
in a way involving tactics
using tactics to reach a goal
Usage pattern:
tactically + [verb/adjective]
Common mistake:
Often confused with tactfully (meaning politely and sensitively in social situations).
Synonyms
strategically (Often implies a broader, longer-term plan than tactically.)
|
in tactical terms (A phrase used to signal the same viewpoint.)
Antonyms
randomly (Without a planned tactical method.)
|
haphazardly (In a disorganized way, not guided by tactics.)
Collocations
tactically sound
|tactically astute
|tactically superior
|tactically important
|tactically significant
|tactically flexible
|tactically aware
|tactically positioned
|tactically deployed
|tactically disciplined
Themes
sports
|business
|politics
|military
Examples
- The coach changed the formation tactically to deal with their fast wingers.
- The troops were tactically positioned to protect the bridge.
- It was tactically smart to stay quiet until the vote was counted.
Learner examples
- We played tactically in the second half.
- The move was tactically smart.
adverb
C1
property
2
to gain an advantage
in a planned way to get an advantage
Usage pattern:
tactically + [verb]
Common mistake:
Learners may overuse tactically when simply meaning carefully; tactically usually implies an advantage in a competitive or strategic situation.
Synonyms
shrewdly (Emphasizes clever judgment more than planned tactics.)
|
calculatedly (Highlights deliberate intent, sometimes with a colder tone.)
Antonyms
impulsively (Without planning or calculation.)
|
naively (Without awareness of advantage or consequences.)
Collocations
tactically withdraw
|tactically avoid
|tactically choose
|tactically concede
|tactically delay
|tactically remain silent
|tactically timed
|tactically placed
|tactically leaked
|tactically backed
Themes
business
|politics
|communication
Examples
- She tactically avoided answering the question until she had more support.
- The company tactically released the news on a Friday to limit attention.
- He tactically conceded a minor point to win the bigger argument.
Learner examples
- He tactically stayed silent.
- They tactically delayed the meeting.
Grammar
Dictionary form
tactically
IPA
GB/tˈæktɪkəli/
US/tˈæktɪkəli/
Syllables & stress
tac - tic - ally (3 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (tac)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: tactically
- Plural: tacticallies
Expressions
tactically speaking
1/tˈæktɪkəli spˈikɪŋ/
fixed phrase
from a tactical viewpoint
when talking about tactics
Examples
- Tactically speaking, it made sense to slow the game down.
- Tactically speaking, we should focus on defending the middle.
- Tactically speaking, the merger gives them access to new markets quickly.