courtesy — polite behavior that shows respect for other people
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: polite behavior that shows respect for other people
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈkɜːrtəsi/
Example Sentences
- He had the courtesy to knock before entering, unlike my cat who just barges in.
- The airline offered a courtesy upgrade to first class after the delay.
- It's a matter of basic courtesy to say 'please' and 'thank you'.
courtesy
NOUN[/ˈkɜːrtəsi/]
polite behavior that shows respect for other people
He held the door open as a small courtesy to the elderly woman behind him.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Courtesy derives from Middle French 'cortesie', which originally denoted the refined and courteous behaviour expected of nobility at court. The term evolved from the practices and etiquette of the medieval court to denote general politeness and respectful conduct in modern usage.
Breakdown
corteis (courteous, from Latin cortensis meaning 'of the court') + -ie (French noun-forming suffix), ultimately from Latin cors/cohors (court, courtyard).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“He had the courtesy to knock before entering, unlike my cat who just barges in.”
“The airline offered a courtesy upgrade to first class after the delay.”
“It's a matter of basic courtesy to say 'please' and 'thank you'.”
“She paid a courtesy visit to her boss's mother, who immediately asked when she was getting married.”
📚Related Words
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