courtesy
/'kə:tisi/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- Polite behavior that shows respect for other people: The quality of being polite and considerate in one's actions and speech.
- A polite remark or gesture: A specific act or expression that demonstrates politeness and respect.
- A considerate or respectful act: An action performed out of politeness or kindness, often beyond what is required.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- He treated the staff with unfailing courtesy. (He consistently treated the staff with polite respect.)
- It's common courtesy to say "thank you." (Saying "thank you" is a basic act of politeness.)
- They paid us the courtesy of a prompt reply. (They did us the kindness of replying quickly.)
Advanced Usage
- "by courtesy of": Used to indicate that something is provided or allowed through the kindness or permission of someone, often without payment.
- This photograph appears by courtesy of the National Archives. (This photograph is used with the kind permission of the National Archives.)
- "as a courtesy": Done as a polite gesture, not as an obligation.
- The hotel provides shuttle service to the airport as a courtesy to its guests. (The hotel offers the shuttle service as a complimentary, polite service.)
- "courtesy call/visit": A formal visit made out of politeness or protocol.
- The ambassador made a courtesy call on the prime minister. (The ambassador paid a formal, polite visit to the prime minister.)
Variants and Related Words
- Courteous (adj): Having or showing good manners; polite.
- He was always courteous to his customers.
- Discourtesy (n): Rude or impolite behavior; the opposite of courtesy.
- She was offended by his discourtesy.
Synonyms
- Politeness: Behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people.
- Civility: Formal politeness and courtesy in behavior or speech.
- Respect: A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements; also shown through polite behavior.
Related Phrases
- Courtesy title: A title (e.g., "Lord," "Lady") used for convenience or by custom, without legal or official standing.
- He was given the courtesy title of 'Sir' during his tenure, though he was not officially knighted.
Related Idioms
- "Courtesy of the house": Something (like a drink) provided free by a restaurant, hotel, or bar.
- Please enjoy this dessert, courtesy of the house.
- "Do someone the courtesy of (doing something)": To be polite enough to do something for someone.
- Please do me the courtesy of listening to my explanation.
Noun
- a courteous manner
- a courteous or respectful or considerate remark
- a courteous or respectful or considerate act