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Definitions

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

"I think when politesse is in conflict with the truth, I choose the truth," he said.

From BBC • Jan. 8, 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

Which, though it was shrouded in politesse, was a different point altogether.

From New York Times • Oct. 5, 2021

Too much politesse, however, might poison a womans prospects for advancement.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.