Take a different tack vs. Take a different tact

Take a different tack

/teɪk ə ˈdɪfərənt tæʔ/

To approach a situation or problem from a new perspective or strategy

Examples:

After the disagreement, she decided to take a different tack.Instead of arguing, he took a different tack and listened.Feeling stuck, they took a different tack to solve the problem.

Synonyms:

This word has no synonyms

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Take a different tact

/teɪk ə ˈdɪfrənt tækt/

To approach a problem or situation in a new or different way.

Examples:

She decided to take a different tact and approach the issue with empathy.The team took a different tact to increase sales and focused on digital marketing.Instead of arguing, he took a different tact and listened carefully.

Synonyms:

This word has no synonyms

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Ways to tell them apart:

• Take a different tack comes from sailing, where tack refers to the direction a boat is steered in relation to the wind.
• Take a different tact is a common error stemming from the misinterpretation of tact, which refers to sensitive communication.
• Remember, tack is about changing course or strategy, whereas tact involves social sensitivity.
• Visualize a boat adjusting its tack to change direction, not its level of tact.
• Think of the nautical context for tack to differentiate from the interpersonal skills associated with tact.