a matter of courtesy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a matter of courtesy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to actions or behaviors that are done out of politeness or respect. Example: "Sending a thank-you note after receiving a gift is often seen as a matter of courtesy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Chelsea were contacted by Blackburn as a matter of courtesy before the game.

Independent

That sort of thing is not uncommon, as a matter of courtesy — or negotiation — between orchestras.

The New York Times - Arts

It was a matter of courtesy, of a strong sense of the other person's feelings.

Independent

Its existence could be regarded as a matter of courtesy between the three parts of Parliament.

The Guardian

Police confirmed that officers contacted the families of the two victims prior to yesterday's operation "as a matter of courtesy".

Independent

As a matter of courtesy, she should offer to replace his hard drive and, with equal courtesy, he should decline.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Mr. Lipsky (a courtly gent, who believes that the use of courtesy titles is a matter of elementary courtesy) telephoned me for a chat before setting pen to paper.

The New Yorker

"It's a matter of common courtesy.

The New York Times - Sports

Such pleas are usually honored as a matter of senatorial courtesy.

The New York Times

When I met Meitu's chairman, Cai Wensheng, later that day, he confirmed that editing your pictures had become a matter of ordinary courtesy.

The New Yorker

As a matter of senatorial courtesy, Daniel K. Inouye, Democrat of Hawaii, who stood on the opposite side of the legislation, had agreed in advance to withhold his vote so the outcome could not be affected by Mr. Stevens's absence.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a matter of courtesy" to explain actions taken out of politeness, especially when no strict rule mandates them. For instance, informing someone about a decision that affects them, even if not legally required, is often "a matter of courtesy".

Common error

Avoid using "a matter of courtesy" when describing actions that are legally or contractually required. The phrase implies a voluntary act of politeness, not a binding obligation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a matter of courtesy" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a predicate nominative or an appositive, clarifying the reason or motivation behind a particular action. Examples on Ludwig illustrate its use in explaining actions done out of politeness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

18%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a matter of courtesy" is used to describe actions performed out of politeness or respect, even when there is no legal or contractual obligation to do so. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, primarily in news and media, wiki and science contexts. It is important to use this phrase appropriately, ensuring it reflects voluntary actions of politeness rather than required duties. Consider using related phrases like "a question of etiquette" or "a gesture of respect" to fine-tune your message. By understanding the nuances of "a matter of courtesy", you can effectively communicate the intention behind various actions and behaviors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of etiquette

Focuses more specifically on established rules of polite behavior.

an act of politeness

Highlights a single, specific instance of polite behavior.

a gesture of respect

Emphasizes the feeling of admiration or deference conveyed.

a standard practice

Suggests that the action is normal and expected, rather than just polite.

a professional obligation

Implies a duty related to one's job or field.

a customary procedure

Highlights that the action is a commonly followed method.

simple good manners

Highlights the baseline behaviors expected in society.

sheer civility

Conveys more about being civil and well-mannered in public.

mere politeness

Suggests the action is the bare minimum expected.

due diligence

Indicates the action is performed as part of a thorough process.

FAQs

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

You can use "a matter of courtesy" to describe an action taken out of politeness or respect, even if it's not strictly required. For example, "We informed the neighbors of our construction plans as "a matter of courtesy"".

What are some alternatives to "a matter of courtesy"?

Alternatives include "a question of etiquette", "an act of politeness", or "a gesture of respect". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "as a matter of courtesy" or "it is a matter of courtesy"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and commonly used. "As a matter of courtesy" often introduces the reason for an action, while "it is a matter of courtesy" states a general principle.

What's the difference between "a matter of courtesy" and "a matter of right"?

"A matter of courtesy" refers to something done out of politeness or respect, while "a matter of right" indicates something that is legally or morally guaranteed. For instance, providing access to public records is often "a matter of right", whereas sending a thank-you note is typically "a matter of courtesy".