Definition

Not showing respect or politeness; being rude to others.

Example

It is considered discourteous to interrupt someone while they are speaking.

Conversation

Did you notice how discourteous he was at the meeting yesterday?

Yeah, I thought it was really rude to interrupt everyone like that.

Exactly! It's frustrating when people are so discourteous in a group setting.

For sure, it makes it hard to have a good discussion.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Discourteous → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning not) and "courteous" (from Old French *courtois*, meaning polite or refined). The word "discourteous" means not polite or lacking in courtesy.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('dis-') being added to 'polite' ('courteous') — that's why discourteous means not polite.

Visually Confused Words