Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective courteous contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of courteous are chivalrous, civil, gallant, and polite. While all these words mean "observant of the forms required by good breeding," courteous implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness.

clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers

When can chivalrous be used instead of courteous?

While in some cases nearly identical to courteous, chivalrous suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior.

a chivalrous display of duty

Where would civil be a reasonable alternative to courteous?

The words civil and courteous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, civil often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness.

owed the questioner a civil reply

How are the words gallant and chivalrous related as synonyms of courteous?

Both gallant and chivalrous imply courteous attentiveness especially to women. Gallant suggests spirited and dashing behavior and ornate expressions of courtesy.

a gallant suitor of the old school

When could polite be used to replace courteous?

The meanings of polite and courteous largely overlap; however, polite commonly implies polish of speech and manners and sometimes suggests an absence of cordiality.

if you can't be pleasant, at least be polite

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of courteous Superficially courteous and casually racist, Jimmer is an old school authority figure, from his wide-brimmed hat to his work boots, and he’s presented as a fearful impediment to Marshall’s mission right from the jump. Ben Travers, IndieWire, 14 Aug. 2025 During that time, and as a teacher at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas, the physically towering Spelman garnered a reputation as humble, courteous and a thorough public servant — one eager to dig into details and help cities function more effectively. Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American Statesman, 25 July 2025 Rather than subtly asking whether an applicant is humble, courteous, and a good listener, this question’s first purpose is gleaning what a student truly cares about. Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025 Be kind, courteous, and patient, and hope that others respond likewise. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for courteous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for courteous
Adjective
  • Always speaking calmly with a polite smile and a distinct Italian accent, Bassetti could easily be described as an iron fist in a velvet glove.
    Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 6 Oct. 2025
  • The rather polite 47-year-old Englishman remained transfixed on the massive video board down the hill.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The flagship offers an expansive collection of wallcoverings, rugs, furniture, and more, and aims to capture the welcoming, gracious environment the brand is known for while signaling its evolution.
    Sydney Gore, Architectural Digest, 29 Sep. 2025
  • But these aren’t gods in oh-so-gracious robes or with armor or holding lightning bolts in their hands.
    David Lyman, Cincinnati Enquirer, 27 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Courteous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/courteous. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on courteous

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