List of Famous Etiquette Quotes in English with Images

Here’s a selection of famous etiquette quotes, along with their meanings and examples illustrating their relevance in daily life:

1. "Good manners will open doors that the best education cannot." – Clarence Thomas

• Meaning: Etiquette and respect for others often create opportunities that skills or knowledge alone might not.

• Example: A person showing genuine politeness and respect in an interview often makes a more favorable impression, even if others have more qualifications.

2. "Politeness is the flower of humanity." – Joseph Joubert

• Meaning: Kindness and politeness are central to our humanity, making the world a better, more harmonious place.

• Example: A kind gesture, like holding the door for someone or offering a friendly greeting, brightens people’s day and fosters goodwill in the community.

3. "Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use." – Emily Post

• Meaning: True etiquette is more about being considerate than following specific rules rigidly.

• Example: Someone who listens attentively and respects others' feelings in a conversation demonstrates good manners, regardless of formal dining etiquette.

4. "Etiquette is the science of living. It embraces everything. It is ethics. It is honor." – Emily Post

• Meaning: Etiquette goes beyond manners; it encompasses all aspects of respectful and honorable conduct.

• Example: Practicing honesty in business dealings and showing respect for clients and coworkers are examples of etiquette that contribute to a reputable character.

5. "Manners are a great ornament, and every common day should be regarded as an opportunity to practice them." – Letitia Baldrige

• Meaning: Manners are valuable qualities that should be practiced daily, not just on special occasions.

• Example: Saying "please" and "thank you," giving compliments, and offering help to others are simple acts of manners that can be practiced any day.

6. "Good manners are just a way of showing other people that we have respect for them." – Bill Kelly

• Meaning: Etiquette demonstrates respect and appreciation for others, making social interactions smoother.

• Example: Addressing people politely, not interrupting, and showing up on time for meetings are respectful actions that improve social dynamics.

7. "Respect for ourselves guides our morals, respect for others guides our manners." – Laurence Sterne

• Meaning: Our inner values guide our ethics, while etiquette guides our interactions with others.

• Example: A person who respects themselves by keeping honest and true to their values, while respecting others by treating them politely, demonstrates integrity and good manners.

8. "Gratitude and courtesy are the greatest ornaments of the mind." – Cicero

• Meaning: Gratitude and courtesy are powerful qualities that enhance our character and how we are perceived by others.

• Example: A manager who acknowledges the hard work of their team members and treats them with courtesy builds strong, positive relationships.

9. "Life is not so short but that there is always time for courtesy." – Ralph Waldo Emerson

• Meaning: No matter how busy we are, there’s always time to show kindness and respect to others.

• Example: Even when rushing, someone who pauses to hold the elevator or help a person with directions shows courtesy and consideration.

10. "The hardest job kids face today is learning good manners without seeing any." – Fred Astaire

• Meaning: Manners are best learned by example, which can be challenging if children aren’t exposed to good etiquette.

• Example: Children who see their parents practice politeness, such as saying "please" and "thank you," are more likely to adopt these behaviors themselves.

11. "Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see." – Mark Twain

• Meaning: Kindness transcends physical barriers and is understood universally.

• Example: Smiling at someone, offering help to those in need, or being patient with others is a form of kindness that anyone can appreciate, regardless of background.

12. "To speak kindly does not hurt the tongue." – Proverb

• Meaning: Being polite and kind costs nothing, but it can make a big difference to others.

• Example: Complimenting a colleague or speaking gently during a disagreement requires little effort but creates a positive impact in relationships.

These quotes illustrate that etiquette is more than following rules; it’s about embodying kindness, respect, and empathy in daily interactions.