Politeness & Etiquettes: English Vocabulary List

used to emphasize that being polite, respectful, and considerate toward others does not require any significant effort or expense

"Being polite costs nothing — civility costs nothing."

"She treated every person she met with courtesy — civility costs nothing."

used to emphasize that being polite and courteous toward others is a small effort that can bring significant benefit

"Politeness is inexpensive and highly effective — politeness costs little but yields much."

"A simple thank-you had transformed the relationship — politeness costs little but yields much."

used to suggest that treating others with kindness and respect can inspire them to do the same

"Courtesy spreads from person to person — courtesy is contagious."

"The new manager's respectful tone gradually changed the culture of the whole floor — courtesy is contagious."

used to suggest that one should be polite and courteous in their speech, even if they have negative or critical thoughts about the person or topic at hand

"Speak kindly regardless of your private thoughts — speak fair and think what you will."

"She maintained a professional tone even when she disagreed strongly — speak fair and think what you like."

used to suggest that the most effective way to persuade someone is to present one's case with respectful language, while providing strong and convincing evidence to support one's position

"Be gentle in tone but firm in substance — use soft words and hard arguments."

"She delivered the difficult feedback with care but precision — use soft words and hard arguments."

used to indicate that older individuals should be given priority or go first, even if it means that their appearance may be less attractive or appealing compared to others

"Older people go first — age before beauty."

"He held the door and gestured — age before beauty."

used to suggest that good customer service is essential for the success of a business, and a friendly and welcoming attitude toward customers is a crucial aspect of it

"Always greet customers warmly."

"My grandmother always told me that you should not open a shop unless you know how to smile, because a warm and friendly attitude toward customers is the most important thing for any business to succeed."

used to advise individuals to adapt to local customs and practices when in an unfamiliar situation or culture

"Do as Romans do."

"When visiting a new country, it's best to remember when in Rome, do as the Romans do."

used to suggest that retracting or taking back a gift or favor that has already been given is generally seen as dishonest or morally wrong

"Don't take back gifts."

"To give a thing, and take a thing is to wear the devil's gold ring, signifying a lack of integrity."