How to Show You're a Gentleman

You don't have to be born into royalty, have impeccable style or a perfect upbringing to be a true gentleman.

The term "gentleman" originated in the 13th century, meaning "well-born man." An image search of "gentleman" will turn up an overwhelmingly large number of photos of dapper men in suits and hats. It almost seems as if gentlemanliness is nothing more than a style of clothing, but a true gentleman is really a simple matter of good manners, a good heart and good hygiene.

Instructions

1. Take a shower. You can be unkempt and still be a gentleman, but it is highly ungentlemanlike to offend the nostrils of those around you.

2. Use clean language. The occasional tame oath for emphasis is acceptable, but a terminally foul mouth is not, especially in mixed company or in front of strangers, children or casual acquaintances.

3. Do the right thing. This could mean holding the door open for a lady or other gentleman whose hands are full, giving up your seat on the bus to a person who is disabled, pregnant or obviously more tired and miserable than yourself, or helping the stooped old man unload the 50-pound bag of dog food from his cart at the grocery store.

4. Be polite. Never shout at servers in restaurants or the guy who took your spot in the parking lot. Handle these things with class; bring attention to your displeasure if you must, but do it with charm and a smile.

5. Don't be a brute. Leave the punches to the guys in the ring and use your intelligence to solve problems.

6. Say "please" when you want something. Say "thank you" when you get something. Say "excuse me" if you want someone to move or if you have to interrupt a conversation. Say "I'm sorry" if you accidentally do something that hurts or bothers someone else.

7. Respond with interest to what others are saying and carry on a two-way conversation in which you give (talk, ask questions) and take (listen).

References

• Online Etymology Dictionary

Resources

• The Gentleman's Guide