tactic-n; 2 Senses

Sense Number 1: a specific method or device employed to attain a goal

Commentary: TACTIC[+activity][+method][+specific][+goal][+attainment]

Examples:
Bob will resort to any tactic to get that promotion in his department.
We need to try a different tactic to move negotiations forward.
Having a time limit to prevent something terrible from happening is an effective plot tactic to build suspense within the dramatic arc of a story.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: specific maneuver of troops in a military battle

Commentary: TACTIC[+activity][+maneuver][+specific][+battle][+military]
NOTE: implies physical movement of troops and equipment
NOTE: often occurs in the plural

Examples:
The general's brilliant tactics won the battle for him, even though his troops were outnumbered.
It's a classic naval tactic taught at all military academies.
The coach's tactics have not helped him score in the first quarter of the game. (metaphoric extension)

Mappings:
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 2