courtesy Definition
- 1polite behavior that shows respect for other people
- 2a polite action or expression, especially one that is formal or conventional
Using courtesy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "courtesy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He showed great courtesy to his guests.
Example
As a courtesy, please let us know if you can't attend the meeting.
Example
The company car was provided as a courtesy to the visiting executive.
Example
She had the courtesy to apologize for her mistake.
courtesy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for courtesy
- consideration
- civility
- decorum
- politeness
- respect
Antonyms for courtesy
- discourtesy
- rudeness
Idioms Using courtesy
out of courtesy
as a polite gesture or act of respect
Example
Out of courtesy, I waited until he finished speaking before I left the room.
do the courtesy of something
to do something as a polite gesture or act of respect
Example
He did the courtesy of introducing me to his boss.
return the courtesy
to show someone a polite or respectful action or behavior in response to their own
Example
I returned the courtesy by thanking him for his help.
Phrases with courtesy
common courtesy
basic politeness and respect that are expected in social interactions
Example
It's just common courtesy to say 'please' and 'thank you.'
extend the courtesy
to show someone a polite or respectful action or behavior
Example
I extended the courtesy of holding the door open for her.
take the courtesy
to accept something offered as a polite gesture
Example
I took the courtesy of the company car to get to the airport.
Origins of courtesy
from Old French 'cortoisie', meaning 'courteousness'
Summary: courtesy in Brief
The term 'courtesy' [ˈkɜːtəsi] refers to polite behavior and actions that show respect for others. It can be a formal or conventional expression, such as 'As a courtesy, please let us know if you can't attend the meeting,' or a basic expectation of social interactions, as in 'It's just common courtesy to say 'please' and 'thank you.'' 'Courtesy' extends into idioms like 'out of courtesy,' which means as a polite gesture, and 'do the courtesy of something,' which means to do something as a polite gesture.
