civilized
civilized — adjective
1. Describing a society, country, or community that has advanced systems of governm
Describing a society, country, or community that has advanced systems of government, law, education, and culture, and generally treats its people in a fair and just way.
In a truly civilized nation, all children receive free education and proper medical care.
collocation: civilized nation / civilized society
The ambassador praised the two countries for building a civilized relationship based on mutual respect.
collocation: civilized relationship
Ravi was proud to live in a city with civilized transport and clean streets.
No civilized government would ignore the basic needs of its poorest citizens.
After years of conflict, the region finally built a civilized system of laws and courts.
- advanced
Focuses on technological and economic development rather than fairness or culture.
- developed
More neutral; describes economic and industrial growth without the moral judgment of 'civilized'.
- enlightened
Emphasises progressive, tolerant, and rational attitudes in a society.
- uncivilized
Direct opposite; describes a society lacking advanced systems or fair treatment.
- primitive
Suggests an early stage of development, often with negative connotations.
文法句型
civilized + noun (society / nation / country / world)
用法筆記
Commonly used as an attributive adjective before nouns like 'society', 'nation', 'world', and 'country'. It implies both material development and fair treatment of people.
常見錯誤
2. Acting with politeness, self-control, and respect toward others, especially when
Acting with politeness, self-control, and respect toward others, especially when discussing disagreements or dealing with difficult situations.
Leila remained civilized during the debate, listening carefully without interrupting her opponent.
remain + civilized (link-verb pattern)
Tomás showed civilized behaviour by waiting his turn and thanking the staff afterward.
civilized behaviour
Even when the customer complained loudly, the manager stayed calm and civilized.
A civilized person does not shout at waiters, no matter how long the food takes.
Yusuf and Priya settled their disagreement in a civilized way, without harsh words or anger.
- polite
More general and commonly used for everyday good manners; lacks the 'calm under pressure' implication.
- courteous
More formal; suggests deliberate, respectful behaviour often in professional settings.
- civil
Describes the minimum acceptable level of politeness, often implying restraint rather than warmth.
- rude
Direct opposite; describes behaviour that is impolite or disrespectful.
- uncivilized
In this sense, describes behaviour that is wild, aggressive, or lacking self-control.
文法句型
be / stay / remain + civilized
civilized + noun (behaviour / way / manner / discussion)
用法筆記
Frequently used in the pattern 'stay/remain civilized' to describe keeping calm under pressure. Also common in negative constructions such as 'it is not civilized to...'.
常見錯誤
3. Describing a place, environment, or way of living that offers ease, comfort, and
Describing a place, environment, or way of living that offers ease, comfort, and the modern conveniences people expect, often in contrast to rougher or more basic conditions.
The hotel room felt civilized, with soft beds, hot water, and a garden view.
civilized with [amenities] (complement pattern)
After a week of camping, the family enjoyed the civilized comforts of their own home.
civilized comforts
Hana prefers a civilized lifestyle with a warm bath after work and home-cooked meals.
The old farmhouse was surprisingly civilized once they fixed the heating and added a bathroom.
What Bao calls a civilized weekend means good food, a book, and no phone calls.
- comfortable
More general and neutral; lacks the contrast with rough conditions that 'civilized' implies.
- pleasant
Focuses on enjoyment rather than convenience or modern facilities.
- luxurious
Suggests a higher degree of wealth and indulgence beyond what 'civilized' conveys.
文法句型
feel / look / seem + civilized
civilized + noun (lifestyle / comfort / surroundings)
用法筆記
Often used humorously or to highlight a contrast with something basic, rustic, or uncomfortable. The sense carries a touch of personal appreciation rather than objective description.