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]
respectful
Example
He spoke in a respectful tone to his elders. [respectful: adjective]
Example
It is important to be respectful of other people's beliefs and values. [respectful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Respectful is more commonly used than courteous in everyday language. Respectful is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while courteous is more specific and often used in formal or customer service settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between courteous and respectful?
Courteous is typically associated with a more formal or polite tone, while respectful can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.
