"polite to" vs "polite with"

Question

"polite to" vs "polite with"

Both 'polite to' and 'polite with' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Polite to' is used when referring to the behavior towards someone, while 'polite with' is used when referring to the manner in which someone interacts with others.

Last Updated: March 27, 2024

Use 'polite to' when describing how someone behaves towards others in a respectful and courteous manner.

Examples:

He is always polite to his elders.
It's important to be polite to everyone you meet.
She was polite to the new student in class.
Please remember to be polite to the guests.
Being polite to others is a sign of good manners.

Alternatives:

respectful to
courteous to
kind to
considerate to
well-mannered towards

Use 'polite with' when describing how someone interacts with others in a respectful and courteous manner.

Examples:

She is always polite with her colleagues.
He is polite with strangers he meets.
They are polite with their neighbors.
It's important to be polite with everyone you encounter.
Being polite with others helps in building good relationships.

Alternatives:

respectful with
courteous with
kind with
considerate with
well-mannered in interactions

Answer 1

polite to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to the behavior towards someone.

Answer 2

polite with

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to the manner in which someone interacts with others.

"polite to" vs "polite with"

polite to

polite with

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