What does polite mean?
Polite means respectful, courteous, and considerate in the way one treats other people or communicates with them. A polite person recognizes the feelings and social rights of others, using appropriate words, tone, and manners. The term can describe an individual’s behaviour, a refusal or request, or a form of speech that conforms to social expectations. It does not necessarily mean weak, submissive, or insincere: “polite but firm” commonly describes a respectful response that makes a clear position unmistakable. In everyday use, polite generally carries a favourable connotation, although it can sometimes suggest unusual refinement or indirectness. The word is useful because it describes not merely verbal politeness but a broader pattern of consideration, from a courteous greeting to tactfully handling disagreement.
adjectivePolite describes behavior that is respectful, courteous, and considerate of other people. It can also refer to speech or manners that are socially appropriate and avoid causing offence.
- Behaving in a respectful, courteous, or considerate manner
- Using or presenting words in a refined, socially acceptable way
- Regarded by custom or etiquette as proper or courteous
"She gave a polite but firm refusal when the invitation was repeated."
"The waiter was polite even when the customer changed his order for the third time."
"Her polite reply concealed a firm rejection."
Being polite is not the same as always agreeing: the most effective politeness can be warm, respectful, and firm at the same time.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of polite
The adjective descends through French from Latin politus, a form of politus meaning “cultivated” or “refined,” itself related to a root associated with being polished or developed. In English, its sense developed from describing refined or courtly behaviour to the modern meaning of respectful and courteous conduct. It shares its Latin origin with civil and civility, although the development of their meanings followed distinct historical paths.
Related word forms
How polite is actually used
Polite is generally neutral and positive in modern English. In the phrase “polite but firm,” it can acknowledge that someone is being respectful while indicating that a decision or boundary will not change. In some contexts, “polite” may imply excessive formality or indirectness, as in “polite fiction.”