According to Geoffrey Leech, there is a politeness principle with conversational maxims similar to those formulated by Paul Grice.
He lists six maxims: tact, generosity, approbation, modesty, agreement, and sympathy.
It is preferred to praise others and if this is impossible, to sidestep the issue, to give some sort of minimal response (possibly through the use of euphemisms), or to remain silent.
It is in line with Brown and Levinson's positive politeness strategies of "seek agreement" and "avoid disagreement", to which they attach great importance.
This includes a small group of speech acts such as congratulation, commiseration, and expressing condolences – all of which is in accordance with Brown and Levinson's positive politeness strategy of attending to the hearer's interests, wants, and needs.