courtesy
KER-tuh-see
/ˈkɜːrtəsi/
The showing of polite behavior and effort to please others.
Politeness that goes beyond mere civility, often involving active helpfulness, generosity, or traditional manners.
The story behind the word. Courtesy was born in the royal courts of medieval Europe. To have courtesy meant to behave with the refined manners, chivalry, and elegance expected of a noble courtier. Over the centuries, these elite courtly manners trickled down to become the 'common courtesy' expected of everyone.
Word relationships
- civility: Civility is the bare minimum of polite behavior required to avoid conflict, whereas courtesy is a warmer, more active expression of good manners.
- discourtesy: Discourtesy is rude or impolite behavior.
Commonly confused with
- curtsey: A curtsey is a physical gesture of respect (bending the knees), while courtesy is the general quality of being polite.
Word family
- courteous (adjective): Polite, respectful, or considerate in manner.
- courteously (adverb): In a polite or courteous manner.
Collocations
- common courtesy
- extend a courtesy
- by courtesy of
Idioms & expressions
- courtesy of
Example sentences
- "He treated everyone with the utmost courtesy and respect." Describing respectful treatment
Memory hook
Think of 'court'. Courtesy is the polite behavior that was once mandatory in a royal court. Court manners are courtesy.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'curtsey' (a physical bow made by women, though they are historically related).
Fun facts
- The physical gesture of a 'curtsey' is actually just a phonetic variant of the word 'courtesy'—it was originally a physical expression of courtesy!
Explore more words
accommodating, etiquette, considerate, complimentary, attentiveness, gallant
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