polite

Polite is an adjective describing behavior that shows regard for others and adheres to the social norms of courtesy and respect in a given context. Polite conduct typically includes language that is considerate, gestures such as saying please and thank you, apologies when appropriate, and avoidance of insult or aggression. Politeness helps facilitate social interaction and can reflect power dynamics, relationships, and situation.

The word polite comes from the French polit and Latin politus meaning polished or refined; it entered English via Old French in the Middle Ages, expanding to refer to refined manners and civility.

In linguistics and anthropology, politeness is studied as a social practice. Politeness theory, notably by Brown and Levinson, describes strategies used to mitigate threats to face, such as indirect requests, hedges, apologies, and the use of honorifics or titles. Politeness varies across cultures and contexts; norms about directness, formality, and the appropriate use of titles differ. What is polite in one culture may be perceived as evasive or indifferent in another.