Social Intelligence Vocabulary

sensing the mood and adjusting accordingly

“He failed to read the room and told jokes at a somber gathering.”

Origin: From interpreting collective atmosphere

adjusting language, tone, or behavior for different contexts

“She code-switched effortlessly between boardroom formality and casual banter.”

Origin: Linguistics term for switching between languages or registers

the level of formality appropriate to a situation

“His register was too casual for the diplomatic dinner.”

Origin: From linguistic register—formal, informal, etc.

the underlying meaning beneath what's explicitly said

“'I'm fine' often carries subtext of the opposite.”

Origin: From 'text beneath the text'

a harmonious, trusting connection between people

“They established rapport within minutes through shared interests.”

Origin: French `rapporter` (to bring back), sense of mutual return

subtly matching another's body language to build connection

“Unconscious mirroring signals: I'm like you, you can trust me.”

Origin: From reflecting back posture and gestures

helping someone maintain dignity in a difficult situation

“He offered her an out, allowing her to save face.”

Origin: From Chinese concept of 'face' as social standing

opposing a view without damaging the relationship

“I see it differently, but I understand why you'd think that.”

Origin: Combining opposition with grace

skill in handling delicate situations without giving offense

“She delivered the bad news with such tact that he thanked her for it.”

Origin: Latin `tactus` (touch), sense of delicate handling

knowing when to speak and when to remain silent

“Discretion kept him from sharing what he knew.”

Origin: Latin `discretio` (separation, discernment)