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politesse

[pol-i-tes, paw-lee-tes] / ˌpɒl ɪˈtɛs, pɔ liˈtɛs /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The happy tourists don’t notice Park Chan-wook, the cinematic master behind such tours de force as “Oldboy” and “Decision to Leave,” projecting thoughtful politesse beside him.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2025

But Lorraine's politesse has limits, as a pair of Minnesota’s finest find when they pay a visit to her office to inquire about her daughter-in-law’s connection to a North Dakota crime.

From Salon • Nov. 29, 2023

"What a lovely evening" commented the former hellraiser, a model of politesse.

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2023

Maybe this was just politesse as a disarming tactic, but Morgen saw it as something deeper — an ability to seek connection and profundity in any situation.

From New York Times • Sep. 9, 2022

With them I normally will observe the politesse of secular society concerning religion—say nothing about it.

From "Hunger of Memory" by Richard Rodriguez




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