Politeness: meaning, definitions and examples

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politeness

 

[ pəˈlaɪtnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in communication

Politeness is the showing of consideration and respect for others in social interactions.

Synonyms

courtesy, etiquette, manners.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
politeness

Politeness refers to the behavior that shows respect and consideration for other people. It is often used in general everyday interactions.

  • She thanked him with politeness
  • His politeness made a good impression during the interview
courtesy

Courtesy is a formal and respectful way of interacting with others, often associated with specific actions or words that are seen as markers of respect.

  • He showed courtesy by holding the door open for her
  • Offering a seat to an elderly person is a common courtesy
manners

Manners are behaviors that represent social norms of expected polite conduct in public and private interactions.

  • Good manners include saying 'please' and 'thank you'
  • Teaching children proper table manners is essential
etiquette

Etiquette refers to the set of established rules or conventions governing proper behavior in specific social or professional settings.

  • Understanding dining etiquette is important for formal events
  • Business etiquette dictates how to greet new colleagues

Examples of usage

  • His politeness towards the elderly lady was heartwarming.
  • She always emphasizes the importance of politeness in our conversations.
  • Politeness can go a long way in creating positive relationships.
  • I was impressed by the politeness of the staff at the hotel.
  • Politeness is often appreciated even in difficult situations.
Context #2 | Noun

as a quality

Politeness is a characteristic of being well-mannered and considerate towards others.

Synonyms

courtesy, gentility, graciousness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
politeness

Similar to politeness, but emphasizes general courteous and well-mannered behavior.

  • His politeness was evident in how he addressed even the smallest of children
courtesy

Appropriate for situations where considerate actions or words are emphasized, often connected with specific actions that show respect.

  • He showed great courtesy by holding the door open for everyone
gentility

Best used when referring to refined behavior that suggests high social standing or upbringing, often in historical or formal contexts.

  • The family was known for their gentility and sophisticated manners
graciousness

Used when talking about kindness and warm-hearted behavior, often in social or formal settings.

  • Her graciousness at the event made everyone feel welcome and comfortable

Examples of usage

  • Her politeness is one of the reasons why people enjoy her company.
  • The culture of politeness in this country is deeply ingrained.
  • Politeness is often seen as a sign of good upbringing.
  • The lack of politeness in his behavior was noticeable.
  • Politeness can help in resolving conflicts peacefully.

Translations

Translations of the word "politeness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cortesia

🇮🇳 शिष्टाचार

🇩🇪 Höflichkeit

🇮🇩 kesopanan

🇺🇦 ввічливість

🇵🇱 grzeczność

🇯🇵 礼儀

🇫🇷 politesse

🇪🇸 cortesía

🇹🇷 nezaket

🇰🇷 예의

🇸🇦 أدب

🇨🇿 zdvořilost

🇸🇰 zdvorilosť

🇨🇳 礼貌

🇸🇮 vljudnost

🇮🇸 kurteisi

🇰🇿 сыпайылық

🇬🇪 საუცხოოება

🇦🇿 nəzakət

🇲🇽 cortesía

Etymology

The word "politeness" originated from the Latin word "polītus," which means polished or refined. It has evolved over time to represent the act of showing consideration and respect in social interactions. Politeness has been valued in various cultures as a way to maintain harmony and positive relationships. The concept of politeness has been studied in fields such as sociology and psychology to understand its impact on communication and social dynamics.

See also: impolite, impolitely, impoliteness, polite, politely.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,957, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.