adjective
civil
SIV-uhl/ˈsɪvl/
Polite and courteous toward others.
They exchange civil greetings even as they disagree over the document.
Etymology
Latin civilis connected behavior befitting a citizen with being courteous. In English, this became ordinary politeness toward others, often suggesting basic courtesy rather than exceptional warmth.
In context
civil discourse. I would also be interested to hear your perspective in the comments. Which argument do you believe was the most logically consistent and why? Keeping the conversation respectful allows everyone to engage
More examples
- Please keep your comments civil during the debate.
- She gives a civil reply despite his rude question.
- We aren't friends, but we're civil to each other.
Forms
civil · more civil · most civil
civility noun — Polite and respectful behavior toward others.
civilly adverb — In a polite and respectful manner.
Similar words
- polite
- Emphasizes good manners without suggesting underlying tension or disagreement.
- courteous
- Suggests more active consideration and graciousness than basic politeness.
- respectful
- Emphasizes showing regard for someone's dignity, wishes, or position.