be civil

VERB

behave

Synonyms

STRONGEST

manage

STRONG

control direct

WEAK

act correctly act one's age act with decorum be good be nice be on best behavior be orderly comport oneself conduct oneself properly demean oneself deport oneself discipline oneself keep one's nose clean keep the peace live up to manage oneself mind one's manners mind one's p's and q's observe golden rule observe the law play fair shape up toe the mark watch one's step

Antonyms

WEAK

act up misbehave

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.

They knew civil disobedience must be civil, peaceful resistance peaceful.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

"I'm angry, everyone is angry, but we can be civil," he said.

From BBC • Feb. 4, 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

Clark is also arguing that the case should be civil because it was initially handled by a special-purpose grand jury.

From Salon • Aug. 23, 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

be civil

Example Sentences

Related Words