Usage Note
Savoir-vivre literally combines savoir (to know) and vivre (to live), denoting the art of behaving correctly in society. It is broader than mere table manners and encompasses tact, consideration, and social grace. The word is used in English as a borrowing and remains invariable in French — it takes no plural.
Examples
"Il manque totalement de savoir-vivre."
Natural Translation
He is completely lacking in good manners.
Related Words
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