1. in a polite and courteous manner
2. in a manner relating to ordinary citizens or civil matters, as opposed to military or criminal law
Usage: legal/formal

Examples

• She greeted her neighbor civilly, even though they had disagreed before.
• He spoke civilly to the customer despite their complaints.
• The two parties agreed to settle the dispute civilly rather than go to court.
• They civilly declined the invitation without being rude.
• The matter was handled civilly through mediation.
• She civilly excused herself from the conversation.