- 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.
- 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.
