savoir-faire
Say it: SAV-wah FAIR /ˌsævwɑː ˈfɛə/ · noun
What “savoir-faire” means
Knowing how to handle social situations smoothly.
More precisely: The ability to act smoothly and correctly in social situations.
Example: “She handled the angry client with impressive savoir-faire.”
When to use it
When admiring someone who handles awkward people or situations gracefully, often in a polished or slightly formal tone.
Memory trick
French savoir means to know and faire means to do: knowing what to do.
Similar words
finesse, poise, social grace
Where it comes from
French, 'knowing how to do'.
Quick check
Two guests start arguing, but your host smoothly changes the subject and makes both feel welcome. That's…
sangfroid or savoir-faire?
Show the answer
savoir-faire
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