Etiquette Phrases

adjective coming or happening later than should have been the case; overdue

• I would like to extend my belated congratulations on your recent promotion.
• Sorry for the belated birthday wishes, I totally forgot!
• I know it's belated, but happy belated birthday!
• The belated arrival of the package caused some inconvenience.

noun the quality of being delicately small and pretty

• The daintiness of the porcelain tea set added an elegant touch to the afternoon tea party.
• She admired the daintiness of the delicate lace trim on her new dress.
• I can't get over the daintiness of these mini cupcakes - they're so cute!
• Her words were delivered with such daintiness, despite the harsh message they conveyed.

noun the action or process of objecting to or hesitating over something

verb raise objections or show reluctance

• The lawyer advised his client to demur during the trial.
• She always demurs when asked to join in on group activities.
• I don't want to demur, but I really don't feel like going out tonight.
• Despite the pressure, he did not demur from his principles.

noun a polite remark or gesture, especially one made in social situations

• During the meeting, they exchanged pleasantries before getting down to business.
• At the party, they greeted each other with pleasantries before grabbing a drink.
• I'm not in the mood for pleasantries, let's just get to the point.
• The pleasantries of small talk can sometimes mask deeper emotions.

noun the act of greeting someone

• The proper salutation for a business letter is 'Dear Mr. Smith'.
• Hey there, just wanted to drop a quick salutation before we dive into the meeting.
• Yo, what's up? Just wanted to throw out a quick salutation before we get started.
• The blooming flowers in the garden seemed to wave a cheerful salutation to all passersby.