Courteous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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courteous
[หkษหrtiษs ]
Definition
in social interactions
Polite, respectful, or considerate in manner; showing good manners and respect towards others.
Synonyms
civil, considerate, polite, respectful.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| courteous |
Use this word when describing someone who is very well-mannered and shows polished, respectful behavior, especially in social or professional settings.
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| polite |
Use this word to describe someone who follows general social norms of good behavior, such as saying 'please' and 'thank you'. It indicates basic manners.
|
| respectful |
This word is ideal for describing someone who shows high regard and deference toward others, especially those who are older, in authority, or deserving of honor.
|
| considerate |
This word is best used to describe someone who is thoughtful and concerned about the feelings and needs of others, showing empathy and kindness.
|
| civil |
This word is appropriate when referring to someone who maintains basic decency and politeness, often in situations where there might be disagreement or tension.
|
Examples of usage
- He was always courteous to his colleagues, regardless of their position.
- She thanked the waiter in a courteous manner after he brought her order.
- The receptionist greeted the guests in a courteous way, making them feel welcome.
- Being courteous to others is a sign of good upbringing and kindness.
- It's important to be courteous to your neighbors and maintain good relationships.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures place a high value on courteous behavior, often associating it with good upbringing and education.
- In Japanese culture, showing courtesy includes bowing, which signifies respect and acknowledgment.
- Countries may have specific etiquette rules about courtesy, such as how to greet or address others properly.
Pop Culture
- Courteous characters are often depicted in literature and film as heroes who win respect through their nice actions.
- Popular media, like 'Mr. Rogers' neighborhood, emphasizes courtesy as an important quality for building friendships.
- Movies often feature characters whose ultimate growth involves learning the importance of being considerate to others.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that showing courtesy can improve mental well-being for both the giver and the receiver.
- Being courteous can create a positive environment, reducing stress and conflict in social interactions.
- Courteous behavior is often linked to emotional intelligence, indicating a person's ability to empathize with others.
Literature
- Books often highlight courteous characters to teach moral lessons about kindness and respect.
- In classic literature, courteous behavior is depicted as an admirable quality in noble characters.
- Time-honored works, like those of Jane Austen, showcase the social importance of courtesy in relationships and society.
Origin of 'courteous'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French word 'courtois', which means 'polite or refined'.
- It has roots in the Latin word 'cohors', which relates to a courtyard, where guests were treated with respect.
- Originally, the term referred specifically to those who behaved well in the royal court.
The word 'courteous' originated from the Old French word 'curteis', which meant 'having courtly manners'. It entered the English language in the 13th century. The concept of courtesy has been valued throughout history as a sign of good breeding and respect for others.
See also: courtesan, discourtesy.