When typing fast or writing formal messages, many people pause at a simple question: Is it “curtesy” or “courtesy”?
This small spelling choice causes big confusion, especially since both words look similar but don’t mean the same thing.
People search for this keyword because they want quick clarity. Some wonder if “curtesy” is just a typo, while others remember seeing it in legal documents or old texts.
The truth is that “courtesy” is the modern and widely accepted spelling meaning politeness, respect, or a kind gesture.
On the other hand, “curtesy” is a completely different word that survives mainly in old English law, where it refers to a husband’s right to inherit his wife’s property after her death.
This article will clear up the confusion. You’ll see quick answers, word origins, differences in British and American spelling, and real-world examples.
By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use “courtesy” and when (rarely) “curtesy” might appear.
Curtesy or Courtesy – Quick Answer
- ✅ Courtesy = Politeness, good manners, respect, a kind action.
- Example: She offered me a seat out of courtesy.
- Example: She offered me a seat out of courtesy.
- ⚖️ Curtesy = A legal term in old English common law (husband’s inheritance right).
- Example: The lawyer explained the concept of curtesy in property law.
- Example: The lawyer explained the concept of curtesy in property law.
👉 For everyday English, use “courtesy.”
The Origin of Curtesy and Courtesy
- Courtesy comes from the Old French word courtoisie, linked to “courtly” manners and noble behavior. It entered Middle English around the 13th century.
- Curtesy is from Medieval Latin curialitas but narrowed in English law to mean a husband’s inheritance right.
Over time, “courtesy” became the common word for politeness. “Curtesy” survived only in legal texts, making it easy to confuse the two.
British English vs American English Spelling
Unlike words such as “color/colour” or “realize/realise,” there is no difference in spelling between British and American English when it comes to “courtesy.” Both use the same form.
| Context | Correct Spelling | Example Sentence |
| Everyday English (US) | Courtesy | As a courtesy, we offer free shipping. |
| Everyday English (UK) | Courtesy | He stood up as a courtesy to the guest. |
| Legal (Old English Law) | Curtesy | The property was claimed under the law of curtesy. |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- US audience → Always use courtesy.
- UK/Commonwealth audience → Same: courtesy.
- Legal history or academic context → You may see curtesy, but only when referring to inheritance law.
- Global communication → Stick with courtesy for clarity.
Common Mistakes with Curtesy or Courtesy
- ❌ “Thanks for your curtesy.”
✅ “Thanks for your courtesy.” - ❌ “He greeted me out of curtesy.”
✅ “He greeted me out of courtesy.” - ❌ Confusing “curtsy” (the bow women perform) with “curtesy.”
✅ Correct: The ballerina made a graceful curtsy.
Curtesy or Courtesy in Everyday Examples
- Email: As a courtesy, I’ve attached the report for your review.
- News: The airline offered food vouchers as a courtesy to passengers.
- Social Media: Please follow back as a courtesy.
- Formal Writing: Courtesy demands that we listen before we respond.
“Curtesy” will almost never appear unless you are reading historical legal cases.
Curtesy or Courtesy – Google Trends & Usage Data
- Courtesy dominates worldwide searches.
- Curtesy appears in less than 1% of searches, often by mistake.
- Top countries searching for “courtesy”: United States, United Kingdom, India, Canada, Australia.
| Keyword | Popularity | Context |
| Courtesy | Extremely High | Daily English, emails, social media, business writing |
| Curtesy | Very Low | Historical law, legal documents |
FAQs
Q1: Is “curtesy” a misspelling of “courtesy”?
No, it’s a separate legal term, but in most cases, it’s a misspelling.
Q2: When should I use “courtesy”?
Use it when talking about politeness, respect, or kind gestures.
Q3: What does “curtesy” mean in law?
It refers to a husband’s right to inherit property from his deceased wife in old English law.
Q4: Is there a difference between US and UK spelling?
No, both use “courtesy.”
Q5: What about “curtsy”? Is it related?
No, “curtsy” means a respectful bow made by women. It’s unrelated to “curtesy.”
Q6: Can I write “courtesey”?
No, that is an incorrect spelling. The correct form is “courtesy.”
Q7: Which word should I use in professional emails?
Always use courtesy.
Conclusion
The debate between “curtesy” and “courtesy” often starts from typing mistakes, but the truth is clear: “courtesy” is the right spelling for almost all everyday uses. It represents politeness, respect, and thoughtful actions across cultures, whether in emails, customer service, or social interactions.
“Curtesy” is not wrong, but it belongs to the narrow world of historical property law. Unless you are a lawyer studying inheritance cases, you will never need it.
To communicate clearly and professionally, always choose “courtesy.” By doing so, you avoid mistakes, strengthen your message, and show respect to your readers. Remember: in global English, courtesy always wins.
