French Conversation · Level 161
29 words
French word
courtoisie
Pronunciation
IPA/kuʁtwazi/
Meaning
- feminine nounpoliteness
Example
Les invités ont apprécié sa courtoisie.
The guests appreciated that person's politeness.
More examples
Il a traité les clients avec courtoisie.
He treated the customers with courtesy.
Core concept
A calm social polish that makes another person feel properly considered.
Common phrases
faire preuve de courtoisie
show courtesy
manquer de courtoisie
lack courtesy
Similar words
politesse: Polite words and behavior intended to avoid offending others.
respect: Regard for another person's position and feelings.
amabilité: A friendly and pleasant manner that makes a good impression.
considération: Careful attention to another person's feelings and circumstances.
Definition in French
Attitude polie et respectueuse, exprimée par des formules, des gestes ou des attentions visant à montrer de la considération.
Word origin
Old French courtoisie developed from courtois, originally describing conduct associated with a court before extending to general polite behavior.
Usage tips
- In par courtoisie, the phrase means out of courtesy and introduces a considerate reason for an action.
Other meanings
- courtesynoun
Opposites
- impolitesseimpolitenessnoun
- grossièretécoarsenessnoun
Related words
- courtoiscourteousadjective
- courtoisementcourteouslyadverb