C1noun2K

Courtesy

UK /["/ˈkɜːtəsi/"]/US /["/ˈkɜːrtəsi/"]/

Definition

polite behaviour that shows respect for other people

In simple words: Kindness or polite behavior towards others.

Examples

  • He showed great courtesy by holding the door open for everyone.
  • Courtesy dictates that you should thank your host before leaving.
  • As a courtesy, the company informed customers about the delay in advance.
  • The invitation was sent as a courtesy to all members of the club.
  • He contacted me out of courtesy, even though no response was expected.

Usage notes

Use 'courtesy' in both formal and informal settings to describe polite actions. It's not typically used in casual conversations and sounds more polished in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'court' as in royalty, where people show courtesy.

Collocations

  • great
  • unfailing
  • utmost
  • do somebody
  • have
  • show
  • with courtesy
  • courtesy to
  • a matter of courtesy

Synonyms

  • politeness

Antonyms

  • discourtesy
  • rudeness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'courteous', which is an adjective.
  • Incorrectly using 'courtesy' as a verb.
  • Using 'courtesy' too frequently; it can sound over the top in casual conversations.