Understanding the Distinctions Between Comportment and Deportment

Comportment vs. Deportment: What’s the Difference?

Comportment and deportment are two words that are quite similar, but they have different meanings. Let’s take a closer look at these words, where they came from, how to use them, and a simple way to remember the difference.

History

Comportment comes from the Old French word “comporter,” which means to bear or to behave. It often refers to how someone carries themselves or behaves in a situation.

Deportment also has French roots, from the word “déporter,” which means to carry or behave. Deportment mainly refers to manners or how someone conducts themselves, especially in social situations.

How to Use Them

Comportment

• Comportment is about behavior or conduct in general.
• It focuses on how a person handles themselves in various situations.

1. Her comportment in the meeting was calm and thoughtful.
2. John’s comportment at school impresses his teachers.
3. The coach taught the players about good field comportment.
4. His comportment during the interview won him the job.
5. A polite comportment is helpful in new situations.

Deportment

• Deportment is about manners and behavior in social settings.
• It is important in formal situations or how one is viewed by others.

1. Her deportment at the charity event was elegant and graceful.
2. The teacher praised the students for their good deportment.
3. In the old days, etiquette classes focused on proper deportment.
4. A knight’s deportment was important in medieval times.
5. His deportment during dinner was impeccable.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Comportment starts with a “C,” like “conduct.” Think of it as overall behavior in any situation.

Deportment starts with a “D,” like “dinner.” Remember it for settings where manners matter, or social “doings.”

Summary

Both words talk about behavior, but:

• Comportment is about general behavior.
• Deportment is about social manners and conduct.

By remembering these small differences, you can use each word correctly in your conversations and writing.