What is polite? Pronunciation and usage in English

polite means . Learn how to pronounce and use polite through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of polite

politeadjective

/pəˈlʌɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of polite

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "polite." Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The General Pronunciation:

  • puh-leet (This is the most common and widely accepted pronunciation.)

Here's a more detailed breakdown of each syllable:

  1. "Pol-": This sounds like "puh" - like the beginning of "put" or "pump." Keep your lips relaxed.
  2. "-ite": This sounds like "leet" – rhymes with "meet" or "beet." Make sure your tongue is resting lightly on the back of your lower teeth.

Tips for Accuracy:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable ("puh").
  • Vowel Sounds: Pay close attention to the vowel sounds. "Puh" is a short, open "uh" sound. "Leet" is a clear "ee" sound.
  • Don't over-emphasize: It’s a fairly straightforward word, so don't add unnecessary syllables or sounds.

Resources to help you hear it:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you an example sentence using the word "polite"?

Usage and examples with the word polite in English

Let's break down how to use the word "polite" in English. It's a really important word for conveying respect and good manners!

1. Meaning:

"Polite" means showing consideration and respect for others. It’s about behaving in a way that is agreeable and avoids causing offense. It's essentially about being well-mannered.

2. How to Use It – Different Ways:

  • As an Adjective (describing someone or something): This is the most common use.

    • Describing People: “She's a very polite young woman.” (meaning she's courteous and respectful)
    • Describing Behavior: “He was extremely polite to the elderly gentleman.” (meaning he was courteous in his actions)
    • Describing Actions: “It’s polite to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’” (meaning it’s a good, respectful thing to do)
    • Describing a Place/Environment: "The restaurant had very polite and helpful staff."

  • As a Verb (describing an action): This is less common, but it’s still used. It means to behave in a polite way.

    • “Please be polite to your elders.” (meaning behave respectfully towards older people)
    • “He politeness apologized for the inconvenience.” (meaning he expressed regret and was courteous)

3. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

It's helpful to know some synonyms to vary your language:

  • Courteous: Similar to polite, emphasizes kindness and consideration.
  • Respectful: Focuses on showing honor and regard.
  • Well-mannered: Describes someone who follows accepted social rules.
  • Civil: Formal and polite.
  • Considerate: Thinking about the needs and feelings of others.
  • Gracious: Kind, polite, and welcoming.

4. Examples in Sentences:

  • "It’s polite to wait your turn."
  • “I always try to be polite when I'm talking to strangers.”
  • “The hotel staff were incredibly polite and helpful during our stay.”
  • "He wasn't polite when he interrupted me." (meaning he was rude)
  • “Showing politeness goes a long way.”

5. Important Note: Politeness and Rudeness

“Polite” is the opposite of rude. Understanding what isn’t polite is just as important. Examples of impolite behavior include:

  • Interrupting
  • Being dismissive
  • Speaking disrespectfully
  • Ignoring someone’s needs

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you trying to use "polite" in a specific situation? (e.g., writing an email, talking to someone, describing a character in a story?)

Synonyms for the word polite

Practice with vocabulary polite

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. It is important to be ________ when addressing clients, even if the conversation is challenging.
  2. A ________ request for a deadline extension is more likely to be granted than a demand.
  3. She always gives a ________ nod when passing her supervisor in the hallway, acknowledging their presence without interrupting.
  4. Effective communication requires not just clarity but also a ________ approach when discussing sensitive topics.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. When asking a colleague for assistance with a difficult task, it's generally best to use ________ language. A) aggressive B) impolite C) polite D) demanding

  2. Which of these words describe a person who is considerate of others' feelings, uses appropriate social etiquette, and shows good manners in interactions? A) courteous B) rude C) polite D) respectful E) gracious

  3. Despite the heated disagreement during the board meeting, both parties managed to maintain a ________ tone, ensuring the discussion remained professional. A) confrontational B) abrasive C) polite D) hostile

  4. The customer service representative was incredibly ________ and helpful, patiently guiding me through the return process. A) ignorant B) courteous C) boorish D) disrespectful

  5. She handled the sensitive client complaint with great ________ and professionalism, resolving the issue to everyone's satisfaction. A) insensitivity B) abruptness C) tact D) bluntness

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: He always speaks respectfully to his elders and colleagues. Rewrite (using "polite" or a related word form):

  2. Original: It is important not to offend anyone during international business negotiations. Rewrite (using "polite" or a related word form):

  3. Original: Her manner during the difficult feedback session was very charming and pleasant, making the conversation easier. Rewrite (using a suitable replacement word, not "polite"):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. polite
  2. polite
  3. respectful
  4. tactful

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) polite
  2. A) courteous, C) polite, D) respectful, E) gracious
  3. C) polite
  4. B) courteous
  5. C) tact

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He is always polite when speaking to his elders and colleagues.
  2. It is important to maintain a polite demeanor to avoid offending anyone during international business negotiations.
  3. Her manner during the difficult feedback session was very gracious and pleasant, making the conversation easier.

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