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CEFR C2 — Proficiency

Tack

Definition

(nautical, sailing) A change in direction of a sailboat, especially one that involves turning the bow of the boat through the wind so that the sails shift from one side to the other. (v.) To change direction, especially in a sailboat, by turning the bow through the wind. (figurative) To change one's approach or direction, often suddenly or decisively. Typically used in the phrase 'change tack' or 'shift tack'.

Example Sentences

1The crew expertly executed a tack to avoid the rocky shoreline, shifting the sails from port to starboard in a single smooth motion.
2As the wind shifted, the skipper decided to tack and head for the harbor, rather than risk being blown off course.
3The company was forced to tack in response to the changing market conditions, abandoning its initial strategy for a more agile approach.
4After a series of setbacks, the research team decided to tack and explore a new line of inquiry, one that might yield more promising results.
5The politician's sudden decision to tack and support the opposition's bill caught many by surprise, and sparked a heated debate about her motivations.

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