polite

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective showing regard for others in manners, speech, behavior, etc.
  2. adjective marked by refinement in taste and manners
  3. adjective not rude; marked by satisfactory (or especially minimal) adherence to social usages and sufficient but not noteworthy consideration for others; - W.S. Maugham

Etymology

From Latin polītus (“polished”), past participle of poliō (“to polish, smooth”); see polish.

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