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
  • Number of Tourists in 2024: 45 million From ancient Aztec ruins to the colonial charm of Oaxaca, Mexico grabs you by the senses and doesn’t let go.
    Lewis Nunn, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • One of the oldest towns in South Carolina, Conway is steeped in historic charm.
    Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • The recall affects all lot codes of the product, which could pose a serious health risk to individuals with milk allergies or sensitivities.
    Daniel Orton, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 July 2025
  • The name changes have sparked lively debate of fairness and sensitivity well beyond sports fans.
    Doug Melville, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025
Noun
  • Queen Elizabeth later awarded Beaton the George's Cross, Britain’s highest civilian award for gallantry, for his role in saving her daughter’s life, and bestowed honors on Callender, as well as the other policemen and onlookers who intervened.
    Bailey Richards, People.com, 2 Aug. 2025
  • The convergence of reason and gallantry, of irony and affection, struck a teasing tone.
    Merve Emre, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
Noun
  • This is where strength meets grace and innovation aligns with the creative pursuit of our aspirations.
    Essence, Essence, 2 Aug. 2025
  • Maybe a high performer gets extra grace and a low performer gets denied leave too quickly.
    Seth Turner, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 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 Emmy Award-winning actress’ look came courtesy of Gucci’s 2026 cruise collection.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 1 Aug. 2025
  • In this image released by the U.S. Navy courtesy of Lockheed Martin, the Navy's variant of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the F-35C, conducts a test flight on February 11, 2011, over Chesapeake Bay in the mid-Atlantic.
    Anna Commander Robert Birsel John Feng, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 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 6 Aug. 2025.

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