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Nicety: meaning, definitions and examples

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nicety

 

[ ˈnaɪ.sə.ti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

social manners

Nicety refers to a fine or subtle detail or distinction that is often related to social etiquette or manners. It can also mean a delicate or precise quality in behavior, speech, or tastes. In discussions or debates, niceties might highlight the small, yet important, differences between opinions. Overall, it's about appreciating the small, often overlooked details that can enhance social interactions.

Synonyms

delicacy, detail, finesse, refinement, subtlety

Examples of usage

  • The niceties of formal dining can be quite daunting.
  • She navigated the social niceties with grace.
  • Understanding the niceties of the language is essential in communication.
  • He was conscious of the niceties involved in international diplomacy.

Translations

Translations of the word "nicety" in other languages:

🇵🇹 delicadeza

🇮🇳 नाज़ुकता

🇩🇪 Zierlichkeit

🇮🇩 kehalusan

🇺🇦 делікатність

🇵🇱 delikatność

🇯🇵 優雅さ

🇫🇷 délicatesse

🇪🇸 delicadeza

🇹🇷 nazik davranış

🇰🇷 우아함

🇸🇦 رقة

🇨🇿 jemnost

🇸🇰 jemnosť

🇨🇳 精致

🇸🇮 nežnost

🇮🇸 fínger

🇰🇿 жұмсақтық

🇬🇪 დელიკატურობა

🇦🇿 nəzakət

🇲🇽 delicadeza

Etymology

The word 'nicety' originates from the Latin 'nicitas', which means 'fineness' or 'delicacy'. It came into English through the Old French word 'nicete', which had a similar connotation of subtlety and accuracy. Initially, in the 14th century, 'nicety' referred more generally to the quality of being nice or pleasing. Over time, especially by the 16th and 17th centuries, it evolved to describe delicate distinctions in behavior and social conduct, reflecting the changing values of politeness and refinement in society. Today, the term is often used to denote not only social nuances but also the precision in various contexts such as discussions, artistic representations, and overall aesthetic qualities.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,754, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.