The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word COURTEOUS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
C
O
U
R
T
E
O
U
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "like civil service" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case like civil service = courteous.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does COURTEOUS mean?
COURTEOUS adjective- Showing regard or thought for others; especially, displaying good manners or etiquette.