帮助中心

courtesy

[ˈkɜːtəsi]

courtesy Definition

  • 1polite behavior that shows respect for other people
  • 2a polite action or expression, especially one that is formal or conventional

Using courtesy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "courtesy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He showed great courtesy to his guests.

  • Example

    As a courtesy, please let us know if you can't attend the meeting.

  • Example

    The company car was provided as a courtesy to the visiting executive.

  • Example

    She had the courtesy to apologize for her mistake.

courtesy Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for courtesy

Idioms Using courtesy

  • as a polite gesture or act of respect

    Example

    Out of courtesy, I waited until he finished speaking before I left the room.

  • to do something as a polite gesture or act of respect

    Example

    He did the courtesy of introducing me to his boss.

  • to show someone a polite or respectful action or behavior in response to their own

    Example

    I returned the courtesy by thanking him for his help.

Phrases with courtesy

  • basic politeness and respect that are expected in social interactions

    Example

    It's just common courtesy to say 'please' and 'thank you.'

  • to show someone a polite or respectful action or behavior

    Example

    I extended the courtesy of holding the door open for her.

  • to accept something offered as a polite gesture

    Example

    I took the courtesy of the company car to get to the airport.

Origins of courtesy

from Old French 'cortoisie', meaning 'courteousness'

📌

Summary: courtesy in Brief

The term 'courtesy' [ˈkɜːtəsi] refers to polite behavior and actions that show respect for others. It can be a formal or conventional expression, such as 'As a courtesy, please let us know if you can't attend the meeting,' or a basic expectation of social interactions, as in 'It's just common courtesy to say 'please' and 'thank you.'' 'Courtesy' extends into idioms like 'out of courtesy,' which means as a polite gesture, and 'do the courtesy of something,' which means to do something as a polite gesture.

How do native speakers use this expression?