noun / adjective
courtesy
KUR-tuh-see/ˈkɜːrtəsi/
Considerate conduct showing respect for others.
The woman shows courtesy by holding the door for the approaching man.
Etymology
Curteisie linked politeness with courtly ideals and refined manners. Courtesy carries that association beyond the royal court, naming respectful behavior toward others generally.
In context
how can he expect that his friends will treat his sisters with gentleness respect and courtesy if they see him constantly rude disrespectful and contemptuous towards them
More examples
- Please give us the courtesy of calling before you visit.
- Small courtesies, like holding a door, make people feel welcome.
- The hotel provides a courtesy shuttle to the airport.
Forms
courtesy · courtesies
courteous adjective — Polite and respectful toward other people.
courteously adverb — In a polite and considerate manner.
Similar words
- politeness
- Politeness emphasizes good manners more than helpful acts.
- civility
- Civility emphasizes basic respect, especially when people disagree.
- consideration
- Consideration emphasizes awareness of others' needs rather than formal manners.