courteous
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courteous
Describes a person or behavior characterized by particular politeness, helpfulness, and attentiveness toward others.
Der Kellner war äußerst zuvorkommend und hat uns jeden Wunsch von den Augen abgelesen.
The waiter was extremely courteous and anticipated our every wish.
“Zuvorkommend” (courteous) is the present participle of the separable verb “zuvorkommen.” This verb means to anticipate a person’s wishes, that is, to do something for them before they have to ask for it.
Ein guter Gastgeber versucht, den Wünschen seiner Gäste zuvorzukommen.
A good host tries to anticipate the wishes of his guests.
To express toward whom the politeness is directed, you often use the preposition “gegenüber” with a person or group in the dative.
Sie war gegenüber allen neuen Kollegen sehr zuvorkommend.
She was very courteous toward all the new colleagues.
The adjective often describes people in service professions or their behavior. Typical combinations are “ein zuvorkommender Kellner” (a courteous waiter), “eine zuvorkommende Behandlung” (courteous treatment), or “ein zuvorkommender Service” (courteous service).
Wir haben den zuvorkommenden Service im Hotel sehr genossen.
We really enjoyed the courteous service at the hotel.
“Zuvorkommend” (courteous) is an elevated word that describes a particularly high level of politeness and attentiveness. It is often used in more formal contexts or for positive emphasis.
Ihr zuvorkommendes Wesen macht sie bei allen sehr beliebt.
Her courteous nature makes her very popular with everyone.
attentive / considerate
Aufmerksam and zuvorkommend both describe treating other people well. Aufmerksam emphasizes noticing and taking account of someone's needs; zuvorkommend additionally characterizes the behavior as especially polite and helpful. Depending on the emphasis, both words can fit the same situation.
Die Kellnerin ist zuvorkommend und bringt dem Gast höflich ein neues Glas Wasser.
The waitress is courteous and politely brings the guest a fresh glass of water.
Die Kellnerin ist aufmerksam und bemerkt sofort, dass ein Gast noch Wasser braucht.
The waitress is attentive and immediately notices that a guest needs more water.
