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

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of polite There was a time in the not-so-distant past when people knew their neighbors’ names, made polite chitchat with strangers, and believed in fostering community — so say your older relatives unprompted at every conceivable opportunity. —

Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 7 Jan. 2025 After the publication in the Los Angeles Times, the story shot around the world and the Soviets, through very polite diplomatic channels, warned the Americans to not try again, or else. —

David Szondy, New Atlas, 4 Jan. 2025 The polite way to give and receive cash Can’t possibly think of anything to get someone? —

Ryan Ermey, CNBC, 24 Dec. 2024 Another delegate in the same small-group discussion said that the ideas got polite but forceful pushback. —

Nick Romeo, The New Yorker, 31 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for polite

Recent Examples of Synonyms for polite

Adjective

Dalin was gracious in the moment, but those close to him and the campaign acknowledge that the sting was real.

— George Allen, Robb Report, 15 Jan. 2025
The hotel feels grown-up and staff effusively handle all of your needs with a striking level of gracious humility.

— Lauren Mowery, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025