What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
courteous
Example
The waiter was very courteous and attentive to our needs. [courteous: adjective]
Example
It is courteous to hold the door open for someone behind you. [courteous: adjective]
considerate
Example
He was considerate enough to turn down the music when his roommate was studying. [considerate: adjective]
Example
It's considerate to ask if someone has any dietary restrictions before planning a dinner party. [considerate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Considerate is more commonly used than courteous in everyday language. Considerate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while courteous is less common and refers specifically to formal or polite behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between courteous and considerate?
Courteous is typically associated with formal and polite behavior, while considerate can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be employed in a wider range of situations.
