COURTEOUS Synonyms: 115 Similar and Opposite Words

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

Some common synonyms of courteous are chivalrous , civil , gallant , and polite . While all these words mean "observant of the forms required by good breeding," courteous implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness. // clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers

Q: When can 'chivalrous' be used instead of 'courteous'?

While in some cases nearly identical to courteous , chivalrous suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior. // a chivalrous display of duty

Q: Where would 'civil' be a reasonable alternative to 'courteous'?

The words civil and courteous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, civil often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness. // owed the questioner a civil reply

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

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

Q: When could 'polite' be used to replace 'courteous'?

The meanings of polite and courteous largely overlap; however, 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

courteous

adjective

ˈkər-tē-əs

Definition of courteous next

as in polite

showing consideration, courtesy, and good manners their customer service department always gives courteous responses, even to rude people

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How does the adjective courteous contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of courteous are chivalrous, civil, gallant, and polite. While all these words mean "observant of the forms required by good breeding," courteous implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness.

clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers

When can chivalrous be used instead of courteous?

While in some cases nearly identical to courteous, chivalrous suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior.

a chivalrous display of duty

Where would civil be a reasonable alternative to courteous?

The words civil and courteous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, civil often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness.

owed the questioner a civil reply

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

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

When could polite be used to replace courteous?

The meanings of polite and courteous largely overlap; however, 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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of courteous Don't Be Rude Brandi encourages buyers to be aware of their surroundings and always remain courteous during an estate sale process. —

Shivani Vyas, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Oct. 2024 The technicians were professional, courteous and explained things well! —

Ticked Off, Orlando Sentinel, 9 Jan. 2025 Based on our experience, BetMGM’s customer support team is knowledgeable, prompt and courteous. —

Matthew Gover, Miami Herald, 6 Jan. 2025 Owned by the Wallenberg family through its foundation, FAM AB, the hotel blends tradition with Scandinavian minimalism and modernity and offers a discreet but courteous level of service unparalleled in modern Sweden. —

Heather Farmbrough, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for courteous

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“Courteous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/courteous. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

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Last Updated: 7 Mar 2025 - Updated example sentences

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Synonyms of courteous

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More from Merriam-Webster on courteous

More from Merriam-Webster

Can you solve 4 words at once?

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