courtesy sake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "courtesy sake" is not correct in standard written English.
It seems to be an attempt to convey the idea of doing something for the sake of courtesy, but it is not a commonly used expression. Example: "For courtesy's sake, I decided to invite her to the meeting even though she had declined the last invitation."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The offer was so promptly accepted by Kangxi that the other two kings were forced to make the same offer, if only for courtesy's sake.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But, for courtesy's sake, it is important to remember not to make yourself look like different people on each application.

Science Magazine

For courtesy's sake, hold off on publicizing any dates you go on or relationships you start in the next few weeks.

WikiHow

In a world that doesn't want another Cold War, General Craddock, tossing in some maybes for courtesy and conditionality's sake, sounded like a man who had marked the close of an easier era.

The New York Times

Let him/her know that those remarks are hurtful to you, and ask that s/he tone it down, if for no other sake than courtesy to another person, on a humanitarian level.

WikiHow

We have just got to get over ourselves when we are "Ma'amed" -- for the sake of civility and common courtesy.

Huffington Post

We'll be skipping some of those specifics this time out, but for the sake of a quick reminder, the audio has been amped up, courtesy of a 2.5-inch woofer and 0.8-inch tweeter (0.6 on the regular Echo).

TechCrunch

Courtesy Wendy Kawabata/Corban Estate.

The New Yorker

Courtesy Staley-Wise Gallery.

The New Yorker

But for christ sake, for christ sake.

The New Yorker

Images courtesy Images Courtesy David S. Allee/Morgan Lehman Gallery.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Instead of using the non-standard phrase "courtesy sake", opt for established expressions such as "for the sake of courtesy" or "out of courtesy" to ensure clarity and grammatical correctness in your writing.

Common error

Avoid creating phrases that sound correct but are not recognized in standard English. Always verify expressions using reliable grammar resources to prevent miscommunication and maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "courtesy sake" is an attempt to express doing something for the sake of politeness. However, it's grammatically incorrect. As Ludwig AI points out, it's not a standard expression in English and should be avoided.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the intent behind using the phrase "courtesy sake" might be clear—to express doing something out of politeness—it's not a grammatically correct or standard expression in English. Ludwig AI confirms this, advising against its use. Instead, opt for established alternatives like "for the sake of courtesy" or "out of courtesy" to ensure clarity and accuracy in your writing. Remember to always verify the correctness of phrases to maintain a professional and polished tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For the sake of courtesy

This alternative is more grammatically sound and widely accepted, using the standard "for the sake of" construction.

For politeness's sake

Similar to "for the sake of courtesy" but focuses specifically on politeness.

Out of courtesy

This is a common and direct way to express acting politely, focusing on the motivation behind the action.

As a matter of courtesy

This phrase emphasizes that the action is a standard practice of politeness.

In the interest of politeness

This alternative highlights the goal of being polite as the reason for the action.

Due to politeness

Indicates that politeness is the direct cause or reason for an action.

To be polite

A simpler way of expressing acting with good manners, suitable for informal situations.

Driven by courtesy

Highlights that actions are inspired or motivated by politeness.

On grounds of courtesy

Implies a formal or justifiable reason for acting politely.

As a polite gesture

Emphasizes the act of politeness, framing it as a considerate action.

FAQs

What's the proper way to say something is done for politeness?

Instead of using the incorrect phrase "courtesy sake", you should use phrases like "for the sake of courtesy" or "out of courtesy".

Is "courtesy sake" grammatically correct?

No, "courtesy sake" is not grammatically correct in standard English. It is better to use established phrases to convey the intended meaning.

Are there alternative ways to express doing something as a polite gesture?

Yes, you can use expressions such as "as a matter of courtesy" or "in the interest of politeness" to indicate that an action is performed as a polite gesture.

How can I avoid using incorrect phrases like "courtesy sake" in my writing?

Always double-check your phrases against reliable grammar resources or style guides. If a phrase sounds unusual, it's best to verify its correctness before using it.