Politeness

n. kind, calm professional

What it means

Behavior or language that follows considerate social manners.

Reach for it when naming respectful social conduct while distinguishing it from deeper kindness

A little politeness kept the crowded queue orderly without silencing complaints.

Words to choose between 7

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
everyday
warm
professional
formal
literary
  • everyday

    good manners

    Fits when plain language and learned social conduct are intended

    Careful Manners vary by culture and do not prove kind intent.

  • warm

    courtesy

    Fits when considerate social behavior is the central quality

    Careful Courtesy can name a favor or convention rather than a general manner.

  • warm

    tact

    Fits when sensitive wording avoids needless hurt

    Careful Tact is a judgment skill, not the whole field of polite behavior.

  • professional

    civility

    Fits when respectful conduct preserves public discussion

    Careful Civility may be only a minimum standard and can coexist with coldness.

  • professional

    respectfulness

    Fits when regard for dignity or boundaries matters

    Careful Respect can require frankness that conventional politeness discourages.

  • formal

    decorum

    Fits when behavior fits a formal occasion or institution

    Careful Decorum can enforce conformity rather than consideration.

  • literary

    graciousness

    Fits when manners include warmth and generosity

    Careful It overstates correct but restrained politeness.

Opposites 3

  • rudeness
  • incivility
  • discourtesy

Common phrases 3

  • basic politeness

    Basic politeness includes learning how each person wants to be addressed.

  • common politeness

    Common politeness did not require the tenant to accept an unfair demand.

  • politeness toward

    Her politeness toward every applicant remained consistent throughout the long day.

Word family 2

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated