Manners: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to general behaviors and habits that are considered respectful and considerate in society.

• It's important to teach children good manners from a young age
• His manners at the dinner table were impeccable

Use when discussing the formal rules and conventions of behavior in specific social or professional settings.

• Proper etiquette dictates that you should reply to an RSVP
• Business etiquette includes dressing appropriately for meetings

Use when emphasizing specific actions that show respect or politeness towards others.

• She always shows great courtesy by holding the door open for others
• It's a sign of courtesy to say 'please' and 'thank you
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Use when describing a quality or behavior that is marked by respect and consideration for others, often in everyday interactions.

• Her politeness is evident in how she addresses everyone with a smile
• Showing politeness can make a big difference in resolving conflicts

Used to describe a person's way of behaving towards others, especially in social situations.

• She has excellent manners; she always says 'please' and 'thank you'.
• Good manners are important when dining with others.

Refers to traditional and widely accepted ways of behaving or doing something in a particular society, place, or time.

• It's a custom in many countries to shake hands when meeting someone.
• Wearing shoes indoors is not a custom in Japan.

Describes long-established beliefs or activities that are passed down within a culture or group.

• Family traditions are an important part of our holidays.
• One of their traditions is to light candles every evening during the festival.

Used in formal or official contexts to describe the correct procedure or system of rules.

• The ambassador followed diplomatic protocol during the ceremony.
• There's a strict protocol for handling classified information.