POLITE Synonyms: 156 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'polite' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of polite are chivalrous , civil , courteous , and gallant . While all these words mean "observant of the forms required by good breeding," polite commonly implies polish of speech and manners and sometimes suggests an absence of cordiality. // if you can't be pleasant, at least be polite

Q: When might 'chivalrous' be a better fit than 'polite'?

The synonyms chivalrous and polite are sometimes interchangeable, but chivalrous suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior. // a chivalrous display of duty

Q: When is 'civil' a more appropriate choice than 'polite'?

Although the words civil and polite have much in common, civil often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness. // owed the questioner a civil reply

Q: When is it sensible to use 'courteous' instead of 'polite'?

The meanings of courteous and polite largely overlap; however, courteous implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness. // clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers

Q: How are the words 'gallant' and 'chivalrous' related as synonyms of 'polite'?

Both gallant and chivalrous imply courteous attentiveness especially to women. Gallant suggests spirited and dashing behavior and ornate expressions of courtesy. // a gallant suitor of the old school

polite

adjective

pə-ˈlīt

Definition of polite next

as in gracious

showing consideration, courtesy, and good manners it's only polite to hold the door for the person behind you

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in proper

following the established traditions of refined society and good taste such matters are never mentioned in polite conversation

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective polite contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of polite are chivalrous, civil, courteous, and gallant. While all these words mean "observant of the forms required by good breeding," polite commonly implies polish of speech and manners and sometimes suggests an absence of cordiality.

if you can't be pleasant, at least be polite

When might chivalrous be a better fit than polite?

The synonyms chivalrous and polite are sometimes interchangeable, but chivalrous suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior.

a chivalrous display of duty

When is civil a more appropriate choice than polite?

Although the words civil and polite have much in common, civil often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness.

owed the questioner a civil reply

When is it sensible to use courteous instead of polite?

The meanings of courteous and polite largely overlap; however, courteous implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness.

clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers

How are the words gallant and chivalrous related as synonyms of polite?

Both gallant and chivalrous imply courteous attentiveness especially to women. Gallant suggests spirited and dashing behavior and ornate expressions of courtesy.

a gallant suitor of the old school

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of polite Everyone is very polite there, so hearing everyone yell on the street was something. —

Dave Schilling, Vulture, 2 Dec. 2024 Their relationship transcends the polite respect that Djokovic has given to Federer and Rafael Nadal, the duo that powered post-2000 tennis. —

Tim Ellis, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2024 What's the polite way to show appreciation to these everyday service providers, and does everyone need to be tipped? —

Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2024 An unspoken rule is to be honest and polite on resumes and during interviews. —

Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for polite

Recent Examples of Synonyms for polite

Adjective

His acceptance speech was just like him: gracious and humble.

AllBusiness, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024
When it was announced that the Last Splash classic lineup of the Breeders (Kim Deal on rhythm guitar and vocals, twin sister Kelley on lead guitar, Josephine Wiggs on bass, and Jim Macpherson on drums) would be opening select dates in 2024 for Olivia Rodrigo, Deal was both shocked and gracious.

Drew Fortune, Vulture, 25 Nov. 2024