courtesy
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for courtesy, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Polite, respectful behavior toward others.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use courtesy
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French curteisie/cortoisie, related to courteous, ultimately tied to "court" and the manners expected there.
Full origin of courtesy →Frequently asked questions
What does “courtesy” mean?
The word “courtesy” means polite, respectful behavior toward others. In plain terms, politeness, or something offered free as a nice gesture.
How do you pronounce “courtesy”?
“Courtesy” is pronounced KUR-tuh-see (/ˈkɝɾəsi/ in IPA).
How do you use “courtesy” in a sentence?
Here is “courtesy” used in a sentence: “He held the door open out of simple courtesy.”
What part of speech is “courtesy”?
Depending on how it is used, “courtesy” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “courtesy” come from?
The word “courtesy” comes from Old French. From Old French curteisie/cortoisie, related to courteous, ultimately tied to "court" and the manners expected there.
Is “courtesy” a common word?
“Courtesy” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “courtesy” have?
“Courtesy” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: polite, respectful behavior toward others.
What is the difference between "courtesy" and "curtsy"?
"Courtesy" means polite, respectful behavior toward others, while "curtsy" is a formal greeting made by bending the knees, traditionally by women. Although they sound similar and share a root, they are spelled differently and have distinct meanings.
What is the difference between "courtesy" and "politeness"?
"Politeness" refers to good manners and pleasant behavior in general, while "courtesy" adds a sense of genuine respect and consideration for others. Courtesy often implies thoughtful gestures that go slightly beyond basic politeness.