Out of courtesy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Out of courtesy" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to express that an action is done as a polite gesture or to show respect. Example: "I called her back out of courtesy." Alternative expressions include "As a courtesy" and "In the interest of politeness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Coach Scott Johnson has admitted he has held talks with Wales centre Gavin Henson over a possible return to the Ospreys "out of courtesy".

BBC

Even if you've only invited them out of courtesy and hope they won't come, don't rob them of the opportunity.

WikiHow

Out of courtesy to his fellow billionaire hedge fund manager, Mr. Cohen called Raj to break the news.

The New York Times

Out of courtesy, ask your friend if it's OK, but bear in mind that the response, 'It's absolutely fine', is unlikely to mean that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Out of courtesy to the Mets and Jeff Wilpon, the senior executive vice president with whom Glavine has a close relationship, Clifton would most likely give them an opportunity to match or exceed the Braves' final offer.

The New York Times - Sports

Out of courtesy and in need to establish a good relationship with a formerly unknown and untested politician, EU leaders and Obama have cut Hollande some slack.

Huffington Post

Out of courtesy, however, always clean the wax out of your ears before trying on any headphones or earbuds!

WikiHow

I only pay you out of courtesy.

The New Yorker

I won't do it in the house, out of courtesy.

The New Yorker

It's just kind of the unwritten rules, out of courtesy".

The New York Times

Traditionally the host anthem is played first out of courtesy.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "out of courtesy" to clearly indicate when an action is performed as a polite gesture, especially when there might be other motivations or expectations involved. This clarifies the intention behind the act.

Common error

Avoid using "out of courtesy" as a justification for actions that are actually driven by obligation or self-interest. Ensure the action genuinely stems from a desire to be polite and respectful, not from ulterior motives.

Linguistic Context

Out of courtesy functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to explain the reason or motivation behind an action. It indicates that the action is performed as a polite gesture or to show respect. Examples found by Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, such as extending invitations or offering opportunities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

15%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "out of courtesy" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that an action is performed as a polite gesture. As indicated by Ludwig, it functions as an adverbial phrase, clarifying the motivation behind an action in a way that emphasizes respect and politeness. While usable across various contexts, it is most frequently found in News & Media. When writing, it's important to use this phrase to highlight genuine acts of politeness, not to mask actions driven by other motivations. Alternative phrases, such as "as a polite gesture" or "to show respect", offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Out of politeness

Direct synonym, maintaining the same structure while replacing "courtesy".

As a matter of politeness

Rephrases the reason for an action, focusing on the aspect of politeness.

In the interest of politeness

Highlights the importance of politeness in motivating the action.

As a common courtesy

Emphasizes the action as a generally accepted standard of politeness.

As a polite gesture

Highlights the action as a gesture, emphasizing its polite nature.

In consideration of others

Shifts the focus to the act of considering other people's feelings.

To show respect

Focuses on demonstrating respect through an action.

As a form of respect

Defines the action directly as respect.

For the sake of politeness

Emphasizes politeness as the primary reason for the action.

To be respectful

Highlights the intention of being respectful.

FAQs

How can I use "out of courtesy" in a sentence?

You can use "out of courtesy" to explain why someone is doing something politely or respectfully. For example, "I invited him to the meeting "out of courtesy", even though I didn't expect him to attend".

What are some alternatives to "out of courtesy"?

Alternatives to "out of courtesy" include "as a polite gesture", "to show respect", or "as a matter of politeness", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to specify that an action is done "out of courtesy"?

No, it's not always necessary. Use "out of courtesy" when you want to emphasize the polite motivation behind an action, especially when it might be ambiguous or unexpected. Otherwise, it can sound redundant.

What is the difference between "out of courtesy" and "out of obligation"?

"Out of courtesy" implies that an action is done as a polite gesture, driven by respect or kindness. "Out of obligation", on the other hand, means that an action is done because of a sense of duty or requirement, not necessarily out of genuine desire.