politely

[puh-lahyt-lee]

adverb

1. in a way that shows good manners toward others; courteously.

   The bar is extremely busy, so the ability to work efficiently and politely under pressure is essential.

   Although the coaches encouraged him to try out for the team, he politely declined and went back to his books.

2. in a way that shows refinement, consideration, or elegance.

   The goal is politely described as "optimistic" by the auditors; privately, most observers view it as total fantasy.

   The artist’s journals start politely—small watercolors and writing fill the early pages, but by the end they are overflowing and untameable.

Other Word Forms

• superpolitely adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of politely¹

polite ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

She answers everyone politely, even when she has experienced racism.

From BBC

When the Dems skipped out for Oklahoma, Republican House Speaker Tom Craddick sent state troopers to politely ask them to cross back into Texas and return to work.

From Salon

They create another kind of electricity that highlights Black Newport’s society ball when William strides onto the dance floor, politely interrupts Peggy’s waltz with another gentleman, and drops to one knee to propose.

From Salon

DeShaun Foster politely declined to specify how many wins he wanted in Year 2 other than to say “a lot.”

From Los Angeles Times

The famous Bollywood actor, the late Feroz Khan, once asked a gymkhana club in Mumbai for membership, only to be politely refused, as they didn't admit actors.

From BBC

Related Words

• amiably www.thesaurus.com
• attentively 
• cordially 
• gently 
• graciously 
• kindly 
• respectfully www.thesaurus.com
• tactfully www.thesaurus.com