Polite describes behaviour that shows consideration for other people and social expectations.
The idea
Use polite before a noun or after be: a polite request; She was polite. Use polite to someone to name the person receiving the behaviour.
Examples
- She gave a polite reply to the message.
- Please be polite to the guests.
- He made a polite request for help.
- The assistant was polite even when the shop was busy.
- It is polite to thank someone for their help.
- His question was polite and clear.
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Watch out
What sounds polite can vary with context, relationship and culture; the same words do not suit every situation.
Try it yourself
Choose the adjective describing the reply. She gave a ___ reply. (polite / politely)
Show answer or example answer
polite
Polite describes the noun reply.
Choose the preposition before the people addressed. Please be polite ___ the guests. (to / from)
Show answer or example answer
to
To introduces the people receiving the behaviour.
Choose the adjective describing the question. His question was ___. (polite / politely)
Show answer or example answer
polite
Polite describes the question after was.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the adjective describing the reply. She gave a ___ reply. (polite / politely)
Choose the preposition before the people addressed. Please be polite ___ the guests. (to / from)
Choose the adjective describing the question. His question was ___. (polite / politely)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Write a polite request and describe who it is addressed to.