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

Relevance

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

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of polite Oh, wait: Miss Manners just thought of another polite way. —

Judith Martin, The Mercury News, 20 Jan. 2025 Despite multiple polite requests to move, the behavior continued. —

David Faris, Newsweek, 19 Jan. 2025 Bearing a flawlessly polite and self-effacing demeanor, Mr. Blinken spent countless hours trying to resolve and prevent conflict. —

Edward Wong, New York Times, 18 Jan. 2025 When emailing professors or researchers, students should be polite and professional, clearly articulating their own interests and goals before expressing their interest in contributing to whatever ongoing project the addressee may be conducting. —

Christopher Rim, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for polite

Recent Examples of Synonyms for polite

Adjective

Samia is quick to accept the break-up, even gracious.

— Ben Travers, IndieWire, 24 Jan. 2025
But this gracious view has been taken to the extreme by some Americans who view Russia as a benign actor that is either incapable, uninterested or unwilling to harm the American people.

— Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 23 Jan. 2025