Polite

adj.kind, thoughtfuleveryday

What it means

Showing respect for others through considerate words, manners, and boundaries.

Reach for it when describing courteous behavior without claiming closeness or agreement

The polite passenger asked before moving the bags beside her seat.

everyday
well-mannered
when consistent knowledge of social etiquette is the point
not when Good manners can be performed without genuine respect.
warm
considerate
when awareness of another person's needs drives the behavior
not when Consideration may be silent and need not use polite language.
warm
gracious
when courtesy includes generosity and warmth
not when The stronger praise may overstate a merely correct interaction.
professional
respectful
when regard for another person's dignity or authority is central
not when Respect can be shown directly even when conventional politeness is dropped.
professional
tactful
when sensitive wording avoids needless hurt
not when Tact concerns judgment about expression, not manners generally.
formal
civil
when basic restraint matters despite disagreement
not when Civil is a low bar and does not imply warmth or thoughtful courtesy.
formal
courteous
when respectful conduct follows a social or professional standard
not when It can sound ceremonial where ordinary good manners are enough.
formal
deferential
when deliberate respect toward rank or expertise is intended
not when It can suggest submission and is unsuitable for equal relationships.

polite request
A polite request worked better than an accusation in the crowded queue.
polite manner
His polite manner remained steady even when the answer was no.
polite but firm
You can be polite but firm when a boundary has been crossed.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.