ENGLISH
REFERENCE

politeness

n.
B1 Intermediate US //pəˈɫaɪtnəs// UK //pəlˈaɪtnəs// po·lite·ness

n. the quality of being kind and respectful to other people. It is about using good manners and showing you care about how others feel.

n. the quality of being courteous, respectful, and considerate of others. Often involves adherence to social conventions or formal etiquette.


SIMPLE

It is important to show politeness when you meet new people.

CONTEXTUAL

The hotel staff showed great politeness by offering to carry the heavy bags to the room.

COMPLEX

While some argue that strict politeness is a relic of the past, others maintain that it remains essential for maintaining professional relationships and social harmony.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From polite + -ness.

© 2026 English Reference