English Expression · Advanced
false tack
A coming up into the wind and filling away again on the same tack
Pronunciation: say false tack
Meaning
A sailing maneuver where a vessel heads into the wind as if to tack, but then falls back onto the original tack without completing the turn.
Example
The sailor performed a false tack to avoid the obstacle while keeping the same wind direction.
The sailor performed a false tack to avoid the obstacle while keeping the same wind direction.
Practice tips
- Practice false tack out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for advanced-level learners.