politeness
/pə'laitnis/
Definition
- Noun:
- The act of showing regard for others: The quality of being polite; behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people's feelings.
- A courteous manner that respects accepted social usage: Adherence to social conventions and norms that demonstrate good manners and respect in interaction.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Her constant politeness made her very popular with the staff. (Her consistent respectful behavior made her very popular with the staff.)
- He answered with formal politeness, but his eyes were cold. (He answered with a formally courteous manner, but his eyes were cold.)
- Basic politeness requires you to say "thank you." (Fundamental good manners require you to say "thank you.")
Advanced Usage
- "To mistake politeness for agreement": To incorrectly interpret someone's courteous behavior as a sign that they agree with you.
- Don't mistake his silence and politeness for agreement; he strongly opposes the plan.
- "The thin veneer of politeness": A superficial or fragile layer of courteous behavior that can easily break down.
- After the argument, the thin veneer of politeness between them vanished.
Variants and Related Words
- Polite (adj): Having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people.
- It is polite to hold the door open for the person behind you.
- Politely (adv): In a polite manner.
- She politely declined the invitation.
- Impoliteness (n): The opposite quality; rudeness or a lack of good manners.
Synonyms
- Courtesy: Polite behavior that shows respect for others.
- Civility: Formal politeness and courtesy in behavior or speech.
- Manners: Polite or well-bred social behavior.
- Decorum: Behavior in keeping with good taste and propriety; etiquette.
Antonyms
- Rudeness: Lack of politeness; offensive behavior.
- Discourtesy: Rude and inconsiderate behavior.
- Impoliteness: The state or quality of not being polite.
Related Phrases
- Common politeness / Simple politeness: The most basic level of courteous behavior expected in society.
- It's common politeness to reply to an invitation.
- As a matter of politeness: Done because it is the polite or proper thing to do, rather than from genuine feeling.
- He asked about her family as a matter of politeness, not real interest.
Noun
-
the act of showing regard for others
-
a courteous manner that respects accepted social usage
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