tactics
Definitions
The specific methods or plans used to achieve a goal, especially in the short term.
战术；策略，手段（尤指短期的具体方法）。
(military) The art of arranging and maneuvering forces in battle.
（军事）战术，作战部署的艺术。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Greek taktikos 'fit for arranging' (from tassein 'to arrange in order,' the tax/tact root of order and arrangement) + -ics (a field of method). Tactics is literally 'the art of arranging' — how you order your forces or moves to win. Contrast strategy (the overall plan) with tactics (the concrete moves).
Root tax still carries 13 more wordsUsage Guide
- 'tactics' (plural) refers to the concrete moves: change tactics, scare tactics. The singular 'tactic' means one such method: a clever tactic.
- The study of military maneuvering as a field can take a singular verb: Tactics is taught at the academy.
- Strategy vs tactics: strategy is the big-picture plan; tactics are the step-by-step actions that serve it.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The coach changed his tactics in the second half.
- 2.
They used scare tactics to pressure the witnesses.
- 3.
Guerrilla tactics allowed the small force to harass a larger army.