civility
sih-VILL-ih-tee
/sɪˈvɪləti/
Formal politeness and courtesy in behavior or speech.
The baseline level of politeness required for a society to function peacefully; it is less about high-class polish and more about basic respect.
The story behind the word. Civility shares its Latin ancestor with city and citizen. In ancient Rome, to possess civility meant behaving like a proper citizen of a free republic, rather than a barbarian or a subject of a tyrant. It was the glue of the democratic city-state.
Word relationships
- courtesy: Courtesy often implies a warmer, more generous politeness, while civility is the minimum standard of respectful behavior required to avoid conflict.
- incivility: Incivility is rude or unsociable speech or behavior.
Commonly confused with
- civilization: Civilization is an advanced stage of human social development, whereas civility is polite behavior within that society.
Word family
- civil (adjective): Courteous and polite, or relating to citizens.
- civilly (adverb): In a polite or civil manner.
Collocations
- basic civility
- standards of civility
- treat with civility
Example sentences
- "We must show civility to one another if we are to live in peace." Historical rules of conduct
Memory hook
Think of 'civil' war. Civility is the polite behavior that prevents a civil war between neighbors. Civil citizens show civility.
When not to use
Do not use to mean deep warmth or affection; civility can be cold and distant.
Fun facts
- A young George Washington famously copied out 110 'Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation' as a school exercise to polish his manners.
Explore more words
etiquette, considerate, polished, upstanding, suavity, veneration
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