When typing or reading English, it’s common to pause at words like “curtesy” or “courtesy.” People often wonder: which one is correct? This confusion arises because the words look similar but have very different meanings. Understanding the difference is essential for writing professionally, sending emails, or even posting on social media without errors.
Many search for “curtesy or courtesy” because they’ve seen both spellings in books, online articles, or legal documents and aren’t sure which to use. “Courtesy” is the widely accepted spelling referring to politeness, respect, or a kind act. On the other hand, “curtesy” is an older legal term describing a husband’s right to a deceased wife’s estate. Knowing this distinction prevents embarrassing mistakes and improves clarity in communication. In this article, we’ll break down the difference, explore spelling variations between British and American English, and give practical guidance for correct usage.
Curtesy or Courtesy – Quick Answer
Quick Answer: The correct spelling for everyday politeness is “courtesy.”
- Example 1: She showed great courtesy by holding the door.
- Example 2: It’s common courtesy to reply to emails promptly.
Curtesy is rarely used today and mainly appears in historical legal contexts:
- Example: Under curtesy law, the widower received part of his deceased wife’s property.
The Origin of Curtesy or Courtesy
The word “courtesy” comes from the Old French word courtoisie, meaning polite behavior in a royal court. Over time, it entered English, keeping the sense of politeness, kindness, and respect.
Curtesy, on the other hand, comes from the Latin consortes, used in medieval law to describe a husband’s rights to his late wife’s property. This explains why “curtesy” exists as a legal term but is otherwise uncommon.
Spelling Differences: Early English texts sometimes spelled “courtesy” as “curtesy” due to phonetic spelling conventions. Today, courtesy is standard in modern English writing.
British English vs American English Spelling
Both British and American English agree on “courtesy” for politeness. The spelling “curtesy” is rare and mainly historical.
| Type | British English | American English | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Politeness | courtesy | courtesy | Standard everywhere |
| Legal term | curtesy | curtesy | Historical usage only |
Key Point: There’s no difference in modern usage; the confusion mostly comes from historical or legal texts.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- US Audience: Always use courtesy for politeness or professional writing.
- UK/Commonwealth Audience: Use courtesy in general communication.
- Legal Context: Use curtesy only when referencing historical property law.
- Global Audience: Stick to courtesy unless writing a legal or historical document.
Common Mistakes with Curtesy or Courtesy
- Writing “curtesy” when referring to politeness → ❌ Correct: courtesy
- Mispronouncing “courtesy” as “cur-tesy” → ❌ Correct: /ˈkɜːr.tə.si/
- Using curtesy in modern emails → ❌ Use courtesy instead
Tip: If in doubt, always choose courtesy. It’s safe, professional, and universally understood.
Curtesy or Courtesy in Everyday Examples
Emails:
- “Thank you for your courtesy in responding quickly.” ✅
- “Thank you for your curtesy in responding quickly.” ❌
News Articles:
- “Out of courtesy, the committee allowed additional questions.” ✅
Social Media:
- “A little courtesy goes a long way online.” ✅
Formal Writing:
- “The president extended his courtesy to the visiting diplomats.” ✅
Legal Context (rare):
- “The property was inherited under curtesy laws.” ✅
Curtesy or Courtesy – Google Trends & Usage Data
Analysis of Google Trends shows that “courtesy” is searched far more often globally than “curtesy.”
- Top countries searching “courtesy”: USA, UK, Canada, Australia
- Top countries searching “curtesy”: Mostly historical or legal interest, low volume
Insight: The overwhelming majority of searches refer to politeness, not legal terms.
Comparison Table: Curtesy vs Courtesy
| Feature | Courtesy | Curtesy |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Politeness, respect, kind act | Husband’s legal right to deceased wife’s property |
| Usage | Modern English, emails, social media, formal writing | Historical legal context |
| Frequency | Very common | Rare |
| Spelling | Standard globally | Rarely used |
| Example | She treated everyone with courtesy. | The land passed to him by curtesy. |
FAQs About Curtesy or Courtesy
What is the difference between curtesy and courtesy?
Courtesy means politeness; curtesy is an old legal term or a kneeling bow (variant spelling of curtsy).
Which is a courtesy?
Courtesy is the correct word for polite behavior or respect.
Is it courtesy or courtesy?
The correct standard spelling is courtesy.
Is curtesy an outdated term?
Yes, curtesy is mostly outdated and rarely used today except in legal history.
What does curtesy mean?
Historically, it referred to a husband’s legal right to his deceased wife’s property, or an old spelling of curtsy.
Does Princess Kate curtsy to Camilla?
Yes, royal protocol may require a curtsy depending on formal occasions and rank.
What do you mean by courtesy?
Courtesy means polite behavior, respect, and good manners.
Is courtesy outdated?
No, the word courtesy is modern and commonly used.
What is a word for curtesy or courtesy?
Similar words include politeness, respect, civility, and manners.
Conclusion
When deciding between curtesy or courtesy, the modern, correct choice for almost all writing is courtesy. It refers to politeness, kindness, and professional respect. Curtesy is almost obsolete, appearing only in legal or historical contexts related to a husband’s inheritance rights. Understanding this difference helps you write clearly, avoid embarrassing mistakes, and maintain professional communication. Whether you’re emailing colleagues, posting on social media, or writing formal documents, courtesy is your safe and correct option. Remember, sticking to standard spelling enhances readability and ensures your audience correctly interprets your message.
