be civil
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In some cases, reconciliation might be partial - being able to go to the same family functions and be civil, for example.
From BBC • Jan. 31, 2026
“We would like to be civil servants, soldiers, prosecutors…just like we were in Ottoman times.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 1, 2025
“It is supposed to be civil detention, but… it is a jail,” Michael Lukens of the Amica Center for Immigrant Rights, told NBC News in March.
From Salon • Jun. 24, 2025
Perry and Butt, both Ohioans, have become close friends post college and hope they can be an example of how rivals can also be civil.
From Seattle Times • Nov. 22, 2023
“I don’t want you to do anything but be civil to him and help to the pudding. You’ll give me your advice if I get in a muddle, won’t you?” asked Jo, rather hurt.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
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