discourtesy

Everyday

1. (formal) Discourtesy is rude, impolite behaviour that shows a lack of respect for other people. tree →
2. A discourtesy is one rude act, such as ignoring someone or not saying thank you. tree →

In the lessons

A stiff, polite-sounding word used in formal letters, school reports and old stories: «It would be a discourtesy to arrive late.» It tells the reader someone was impolite, said in a careful grown-up way. Phrases: «an act of discourtesy», «a discourtesy to», «discourteous».

Examples

• It would be a discourtesy to leave without saying goodbye. tree →
• The knight saw the insult as a great discourtesy. tree →
• Interrupting the speaker is a discourtesy. tree →
• The manager apologised for the discourtesy of his staff. tree →
• Not replying to the invitation was a small discourtesy. tree →
• Ignoring a visitor is a discourtesy in any culture. tree →
• But if thou wilt not grant it to me, then I will proclaim thy discourtesy wherever thy name is known.’ tree →

Note

Formal word; in everyday talk people say «rudeness». Opposite: «courtesy» (politeness). Adjective «discourteous». Can be uncountable (rude behaviour) or countable (a discourtesy, discourtesies).