act of courtesy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "act of courtesy" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are speaking or writing about polite behavior or actions. Example: "Holding the door open for others is an act of courtesy that shows respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

To be imperfect is an act of courtesy to your fellow humans.

The Guardian - Opinion

"His bowing before the emperor of Japan was an act of courtesy," Mr. Mansingh said.

The New York Times

To the woman who found a knapsack outside the federal courthouse in Brooklyn on Thursday, taking it to the courthouse's lost and found office might have seemed like a simple act of courtesy.

The New York Times

Handing over a business card is a quick and convenient way of giving people your contact information; you should consider it more an act of courtesy than of arrogance.

Science Magazine

Hacker: Perhaps it is more about "change" than "passing --there's often the first of something repassing --theret of something: the Tunisian Jews opassing --thereouscous restaurants; the homeless men setting up housekeeping under the bridge; the little act of courtesy of the café waiter confronted with a cacophonous traffic jam.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

By Evan Osnos September 23, 2009 As a foreign journalist in China, you learn to be creative about rejecting acts of courtesy.

The New Yorker

Our customs and acts of courtesy would have been of the same brand.

Huffington Post

It would be an act of simple courtesy to the world for Mr. Cheney to get off the ticket, since he has already done as much damage as humanly possible in four years.

The New York Times

"You could, by some act of professional courtesy or by an insightful comment at a seminar, catch the eye of another person who has knowledge of a job opening and may, in a casual way, make your existence known to that search committee".

Science Magazine

This year, conservative politicians took a leaf from his playbook, introducing bills like the Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act, courtesy of Michele Bachmann, the Minnesota congresswoman, that would repeal the 2007 legislation.

The New York Times

Even considering Derby's erratic League form, this was still a giant-killing act of gargantuan proportions, delivered courtesy of a 62nd-minute header from Andy Cooke.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "act of courtesy" when you want to highlight a specific instance of polite or considerate behavior, rather than referring to general politeness.

Common error

Avoid using "act of courtesy" in situations where a more significant expression of kindness or generosity is warranted; it can sometimes downplay the magnitude of the gesture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act of courtesy" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a specific instance of polite or considerate behavior. Ludwig examples confirm that it is used to identify actions that demonstrate good manners and respect.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

27%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "act of courtesy" is a noun phrase used to describe a specific instance of polite and considerate behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts. While more frequent in news and media, the phrase also appears in scientific and general discussions. When using this phrase, emphasize the specific action and consider alternative expressions such as "polite gesture" or "thoughtful action" to better suit the intended nuance. Remember, use "act of courtesy" when highlighting a specific instance rather than general politeness, and avoid using it in situations that warrant a more significant expression of kindness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

courteous behavior

Refers to conduct that exhibits good manners and politeness in general.

polite gesture

Focuses on the outward expression of politeness through a specific action.

kind deed

Emphasizes the benevolent nature of the action, highlighting its positive impact on the recipient.

thoughtful action

Highlights the consideration and care put into the action.

gracious act

Conveys a sense of elegance and generosity in the action.

civil behavior

Broadly refers to conduct that adheres to social norms and expectations of politeness.

respectful conduct

Emphasizes the demonstration of regard and esteem for others through behavior.

amiable action

Implies that the action is friendly and pleasant.

diplomatic measure

Suggests that the action is tactful and aimed at maintaining harmonious relations.

benevolent act

Stresses the altruistic nature of the action, emphasizing its intention to do good.

FAQs

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

You can use "act of courtesy" to describe a specific polite behavior, such as "Holding the door open was a simple "act of courtesy"."

What are some alternatives to "act of courtesy"?

Some alternatives include "polite gesture", "kind deed", or "thoughtful action", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "act of courtesy"?

It's appropriate to use "act of courtesy" when referring to a specific instance of polite and considerate behavior, especially in situations where social etiquette is observed.

Is there a difference between "act of courtesy" and "common courtesy"?

"Act of courtesy" refers to a specific instance, while "common courtesy" refers to general polite behaviors. For example, saying "thank you" is a "common courtesy", but holding the door for someone is an "act of courtesy".