German word

höflich

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈhøːflɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectivepolite

Example

Sie ist die höflichste Person, die ich kenne.

She is the most polite person I know.

Illustration for höflich (polite)

More examples

Sie lehnte das Angebot höflich ab.

She politely declined the offer.

Core concept

A person leaves space for others, chooses respectful words, and observes social boundaries.

Common phrases

  • sich höflich bedanken

    thank politely

  • etwas höflich ablehnen

    politely decline something

  • höfliche Umgangsformen

    polite manners

Similar words

freundlich: Having a gentle, welcoming manner that puts others at ease.
nett: Showing simple kindness or an agreeable, friendly manner.
respektvoll: Showing regard for another person's dignity, worth, and feelings.
formell: Following formal conventions in language, manners, or social conduct.

Definition in German

Höflich bezeichnet eine freundliche und respektvolle Sprach- und Verhaltensweise, die durch höfliche Wendungen und Rücksichtnahme gekennzeichnet ist.

Word origin

Höflich developed from Middle High German hövelich, built on Hof ('court') with -lich, and originally described courtly conduct before broadening.

Usage tips

  • Höflich signals respectful manner, whereas freundlich more directly signals personal warmth; the two adjectives can describe the same person but are not interchangeable.

Opposites

Related words

  • Höflichkeitsregelpoliteness rulenoun

Word lists with this word