politely

[puh-lahyt-lee]

adverb

1. in a way that shows good manners toward others; courteously.

   The bar is extremely busy, so the ability to work efficiently and politely under pressure is essential.

   Although the coaches encouraged him to try out for the team, he politely declined and went back to his books.

2. in a way that shows refinement, consideration, or elegance.

   The goal is politely described as "optimistic" by the auditors; privately, most observers view it as total fantasy.

   The artist’s journals start politely—small watercolors and writing fill the early pages, but by the end they are overflowing and untameable.

Other Word Forms

• superpolitely adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of politely¹

polite ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Yet the ghost of Liz Truss lingers: despite their best efforts to politely disown her, the Conservatives' opponents will probably never lose their appetite for reminding voters of the calamity of her brief premiership.

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There are plenty of apple versions floating around, most of them pleasant, uncomplicated, and politely seasonal.

Read more on Salon

Stokes politely declined all interview requests following the game — so it goes being the most-sought-after basketball recruit in the nation.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The Labour first minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, has politely declined the King's invitation in order to lead tributes to a deceased political colleague in Cardiff.

Read more on BBC

She answers everyone politely, even when she has experienced racism.

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Related Words

• amiably www.thesaurus.com
• attentively 
• cordially 
• gently 
• graciously 
• kindly 
• respectfully www.thesaurus.com
• tactfully www.thesaurus.com