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.

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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 French savoir faire blends seamlessly with Italian style, as evidenced in each of the 17 rooms and 28 suites, including the Conventino villa, with a private pool. —Kasia Dietz, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Mar. 2026 Talton walked The Republic newsroom with authority and savoir faire. —Richard Ruelas, AZCentral.com, 29 Jan. 2026 Instead, its reputation is built upon understated luxury, minimalist aesthetics, and a strong focus on skill and savoir faire, Clark explained. —Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 14 Nov. 2025 The designer is known for his artisanal savoir faire and his signature is a suspension technique that renders his garments light and sometimes almost porous. —Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2025 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. gracefulness
  7. courtesy
Noun
  • Kolonaki Square is its epicenter, but the construction of the new metro stop there has momentarily killed its charm.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 May 2026
  • In addition to the handbags, the line will also offer ready-to-wear, footwear and bag charms, all of which can be customized.
    — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 14 May 2026
Definition of charm
Noun
  • Niki suffers from ultra-sensitivity to noise, also known as hyperacusis, which derailed his career in music.
    — Tommy McArdle, PEOPLE, 22 May 2026
  • Antioxidants like green tea and ferulic acid neutralize oxidative stress (which can lead to sensitivity), while ectoin acts more like a bodyguard for your skin cells, protecting them from environmental stress.
    — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 22 May 2026
Definition of sensitivity
Noun
  • During the reception, Princess Kate shared an emotional moment with Tony Gledhill, a former Metropolitan Police officer who received the George Cross for gallantry in 1966.
    — Helen Murphy, PEOPLE, 22 Apr. 2026
  • In 2020, Magawa received the PDSA Dickin medal for gallantry, which recognizes heroism in animals.
    — Brie Stimson, FOXNews.com, 12 Apr. 2026
Definition of gallantry
Noun
  • Alexis Mac Allister, whose fall from grace this season has been akin to Fabinho’s stark decline in 2022-23, stupidly delayed the taking of a Villa corner with some playacting which even prompted Slot to tell him to get up.
    — James Pearce, New York Times, 16 May 2026
  • But that was just the start of how Louderback came to own it … and in the process demonstrated his abiding dignity and grace.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 16 May 2026
Definition of grace
Noun
  • Whether that was Florida officials flying into Oxford for a visit during a bye-week, or Kiffin engaging with LSU officials in different manners over the final few weeks of the Rebels' regular season.
    — Trey Wallace OutKick, FOXNews.com, 18 May 2026
  • Over the course of 18 months, Jackie and Laura will coach Natty on all the necessary skills to become a big-league service dog, including good manners and basic cues, all while maintaining a healthy diet on food provided by program partner, Eukanuba.
    — Drew Pittock, USA Today, 12 May 2026
Definition of manners
Noun
  • The brightly colored stalk of larkspur blooms will always draw attention in the garden, and true to their aesthetic, these statuesque flowers are associated with gracefulness and positivity.
    — Jenny Krane, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 May 2026
  • Her stage presence, fashion and gracefulness all stood out, said Billy Mitchell, the Apollo's in-house historian.
    — Noelle Lilley, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026
Definition of gracefulness
Noun
  • Guests can rent courtesy bikes or use trail maps to explore local running routes.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 May 2026
  • He was then transferred to the neighboring Porter County Jail as Sheriff Jeff Balon offered to house the man, which is a courtesy extended in cases like this, Fifield said.
    — Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2026
Definition of courtesy

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Cite this Entry

“Savoir faire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/savoir%20faire. Accessed 25 May. 2026.

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