politesse

[pol-i-tes, paw-lee-tes] / ˌpɒl ɪˈtɛs, pɔ liˈtɛs /

NOUN

courtesy

Synonyms

STRONG

address affability amenities amiability attentiveness ceremony chivalry civility comity complaisance consideration cordiality courtliness cultivation culture deference elegance familiarity favor friendliness gallantry generosity geniality genteelness gentility gentleness graciousness indulgence kindness polish politeness refinement respect reverence solicitude suavity sympathy tact thoughtfulness urbanity

WEAK

courteousness gallantness good behavior good breeding mannerliness

Antonyms

STRONG

aloofness coldness coolness crudeness disdain dishonor disregard disrespect fear ignorance impoliteness incompatibility indifference meanness neglect roughness rudeness thoughtlessness unfriendliness

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.

When the vast majority of characters in the franchise behave respectfully, the Emperor’s lack of politesse is a breath of fresh air.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 24, 2025

But Lorraine's politesse has limits, as a pair of Minnesota’s finest find when they pay a visit to her office to inquire about her daughter-in-law’s connection to a North Dakota crime.

From Salon • Nov. 29, 2023

"What a lovely evening" commented the former hellraiser, a model of politesse.

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2023

Maybe this was just politesse as a disarming tactic, but Morgen saw it as something deeper — an ability to seek connection and profundity in any situation.

From New York Times • Sep. 9, 2022

With them I normally will observe the politesse of secular society concerning religion—say nothing about it.

From "Hunger of Memory" by Richard Rodriguez

politesse

Example Sentences

Related Words