polite commonly implies polish of speech and manners and sometimes suggests an absence of cordiality. What is meant and perceived as polite in a given context, however, will depend on judgments of appropriateness and markedness. POLITE definition: showing good manners toward others, as in behavior, speech, etc.; courteous; civil.

Understanding the Context

See examples of polite used in a sentence. of a refined or elegant kind: polite learning. po lite′ness, n. 1.

Key Insights

well-bred, gracious. See civil. 2. urbane, polished, poised, courtly, cultivated. 1.

Final Thoughts

2. rude. In Lists: Top 2000 English words, Desirable personal qualities, PET Vocabulary List - P, more... Synonyms: courteous, considerate, well-mannered, respectful, mannerly, more... Discover 100 other words for “polite” with clear, authoritative alternatives—from courteous and civil to respectful and considerate—for writing and speech. Polite definition: Marked by or showing consideration for others and observance of accepted social usage.

Polite refers to showing good manners, consideration and respect towards others, typically in social settings or situations. It may entail being courteous, behaving in a civilized manner, demonstrating cultural etiquette, using respectful language, or refraining from offensive, rude, or inappropriate behaviors and comments. She only did it out of politeness. [=to be polite; because she wanted to show good manners]