politely

Everyday

Politely means in a kind, respectful way that shows good manners. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and manners lessons, children learn to ask politely («please», «may I»), answer politely («yes, thank you»), and refuse politely («no, thank you»). Speaking politely to adults, shop staff and new people helps everyone get along. In stories, «he asked politely» shows good manners.

Examples

• Ask politely: «May I have some water, please?» tree →
• She politely said no thank you. tree →
• Wait politely for your turn to speak. tree →
• He politely held the door open. tree →
• Say thank you politely when you get a present. tree →
• Knock politely before you go in. tree →
• She politely asked the boy to stop. tree →
• Speak politely even when you disagree. tree →
• “Good evening, dear mother,” said he politely. tree →

Note

Made from «polite» + «-ly». Opposite: rudely, impolitely. Being polite does not mean you must do something unsafe: you can politely and firmly say no.