What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kowtow
Example
The ambassador was expected to kowtow to the emperor as a sign of respect. [kowtow: verb]
Example
She refused to kowtow to her boss's unreasonable demands. [kowtowing: gerund or present participle]
fawn
Example
He fawned over his boss, hoping to get a promotion. [fawn: verb]
Example
The politician's fawning behavior towards the wealthy donors was obvious to everyone. [fawning: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fawn is more commonly used than kowtow in everyday language. Fawn is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while kowtow is less common and has a more specific cultural and historical association.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between kowtow and fawn?
While kowtow is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, fawn can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
