Definitions
- Describing a gesture of deep respect or submission, often involving bowing down to someone in authority. - Referring to an act of extreme obedience or subservience to someone in power. - Talking about a display of servility or groveling towards a superior or authority figure.
- Referring to a display of exaggerated flattery or admiration towards someone in order to gain favor or approval. - Describing a behavior of excessive friendliness or attention towards someone in a position of power or authority. - Talking about a display of obsequiousness or sycophancy towards someone in a superior position.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe behaviors that involve showing subservience or deference to someone in a position of power.
- 2Both words can be used to describe excessive or insincere displays of respect or admiration.
- 3Both words have negative connotations and are often used to criticize someone's behavior.
What is the difference?
- 1Physicality: Kowtow involves a physical gesture of bowing or kneeling, while fawn is more verbal and behavioral in nature.
- 2Intensity: Kowtow implies a more extreme level of subservience or obedience than fawn.
- 3Purpose: Kowtow is often done out of obligation or duty, while fawn is usually done to gain favor or advantage.
- 4Context: Kowtow is typically associated with Asian cultures and history, while fawn is more commonly used in English-speaking countries.
- 5Connotation: Kowtow has a more formal and serious connotation, while fawn can be used in a wider range of contexts and tones.
Remember this!
Kowtow and fawn are both words that describe behaviors of subservience or deference towards someone in a position of power. However, kowtow involves a physical gesture of deep respect or submission, while fawn is more verbal and behavioral in nature, often involving flattery or excessive friendliness. Additionally, kowtow implies a more extreme level of subservience or obedience than fawn, and kowtow is typically associated with Asian cultures and history, while fawn is more commonly used in English-speaking countries.
