What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gallant
Example
The gallant knight rescued the princess from the dragon. [gallant: adjective]
Example
He made a gallant effort to save the drowning child. [gallant: adjective]
Example
He was a gallant gentleman who always opened doors for ladies. [gallant: noun]
genteel
Example
She had a genteel upbringing and was always poised and graceful. [genteel: adjective]
Example
The ballroom was filled with genteel guests dressed in their finest attire. [genteel: adjective]
Example
He spoke with a genteel accent and used formal language. [genteel: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Genteel is less commonly used than gallant in everyday language. Gallant is often used to describe heroic or chivalrous behavior, while genteel is more commonly used to describe refined or elegant behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gallant and genteel?
Genteel is typically associated with a more formal tone, while gallant can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context.
