Basic Details
Word: Courteous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Polite and respectful to others.
Synonyms: Polite, respectful, civil, gracious
Antonyms: Rude, impolite, disrespectful
Idioms and Phrases
- Courteous as a cat: Describing someone who is unexpectedly polite in a given situation. Example: "During the debate, he was courteous as a cat, offering compliments to his opponent."
- To hold the door for someone: An act of courtesy where one person opens a door for another. Example: "She held the door for me, showing just how courteous she is."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The courteous student always remembers to say "please" and "thank you" to his teachers.
Example 2: During the visit, our hosts were very courteous, making sure we had everything we needed.
Example 3: It is courteous to shake hands and greet everyone when entering a room.
Fun Fact
The word "courteous" comes from the Old French word "curteys", which means 'polite and well-mannered', a term that was derived from the idea of being refined and act as if one belongs to the court.
Famous Quote
"Politeness is the flower of humanity." - Joseph Joubert
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "courteous" mean?
a) Polite and respectful
b) Angry and loud
c) Happy and cheerful
d) Quiet and shy
Answer: a) Polite and respectful
2. Which of these is a synonym of "courteous"?
a) Rude
b) Civil
c) Daring
d) Funny
Answer: b) Civil
3. Which word is an antonym of "courteous"?
a) Professional
b) Respectful
c) Rude
d) Kind
Answer: c) Rude
4. Which sentence uses "courteous" correctly?
a) She was courteous and never spoke to anyone.
b) His courteous behaviour was appreciated by everyone at the party.
c) The courteous dog barked loudly.
d) The courteous cat climbed the tree.
Answer: b) His courteous behaviour was appreciated by everyone at the party.
5. What does the idiom "to hold the door for someone" imply?
a) To close a door quickly
b) To slam a door
c) To be polite and courteous
d) To ignore someone
Answer: c) To be polite and courteous
