Synonyms for

Courteous

Verb / ˈkɜ:ti:ʌs / Another word for courteous — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having or showing good manners, polite

Synonyms & similar words

discourteous nice gracious polite respectful civil well-mannered gracious mannerly chivalrous genteel diplomatic considerate decent kind thoughtful cordial friendly amiable affable charming suave urbane

Synonyms by register

Formal

polite respectful deferential civil

Informal

nice kind thoughtful considerate

Literary

gentle affable gracious

Antonyms

rude impolite discourteous uncivil disrespectful insolent abusive

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'.

Example sentences

  1. The waiter was very courteous and brought us extra napkins without us having to ask.
  2. It's important to be courteous to others and treat them with respect.
  3. She wrote a courteous email thanking her boss for the opportunity.
  4. The king was known for his courteous behavior towards his subjects.
  5. 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

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