speak tactfully but to the point
Meanings
1 sense · 3 examplesidiom
to speak tactfully but hit the mark; to make subtle remarks that strike home
literaryOriginating from Han Dynasty historical texts (notably the *Records of the Grand Historian*), this idiom describes speech that is indirect, mild, and tactful (微) yet accurate and penetrating (中). It is often used to praise someone's skill in persuasion, remonstration, or communication, particularly in sensitive situations where direct criticism might cause offense.
When criticizing, he always manages to speak tactfully but to the point, identifying the problem without causing the other person to lose face.
This advisor remonstrated with the monarch, speaking subtly but hitting the mark, and thus gained deep trust.
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Good commentary should be tactful yet penetrating, rather than empty and hollow or malicious and hurtful.