Synonyms for
Courteous
Definition
having or showing good manners, polite
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- courteous service
- courteous manner
- courteous reply
- courteous to
- be courteous
- courteous and polite
- courteous behavior
Word family
noun courtesy
adverb courteously
Usage note
Courteous implies a polite and respectful manner, often with an element of consideration for others. It is generally used in more formal contexts than 'nice' or 'kind'.
Compare "courteous" with another word →
Example sentences
- The waiter was very courteous and brought us extra napkins without us having to ask.
- It's important to be courteous to others and treat them with respect.
- She wrote a courteous email thanking her boss for the opportunity.
- The king was known for his courteous behavior towards his subjects.
- The driver was courteous and let the pedestrians cross the street first.
Quotes
The test of good manners is to be able to put up pleasantly with bad ones. - Wendell Willkie
A man's own good breeding is the best security against other people's ill manners. - Lord Chesterfield
Politeness is the art of choosing among one's real thoughts. - Abel Stevens