kowtowing Definition
- 1act in an excessively subservient manner
- 2to show too much respect to someone in authority, always doing what they want and not expressing any disagreement
Using kowtowing: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "kowtowing" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was accused of kowtowing to the boss.
Example
She refused to kowtow to the demands of her parents.
Example
The government was criticized for kowtowing to foreign powers.
Example
I won't kowtow to anyone.
kowtowing Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for kowtowing
Antonyms for kowtowing
Phrases with kowtowing
to submit to someone's demands or wishes in an overly subservient manner
Example
He refused to kowtow to his boss's unreasonable demands.
to show excessive respect or deference to those in positions of power or authority
Example
The media is often accused of kowtowing to authority and not reporting the truth.
to change one's position or actions in order to conform to popular sentiment or opinion
Example
Politicians are often accused of kowtowing to public opinion instead of standing up for their beliefs.
Origins of kowtowing
from Chinese 'kòutóu', meaning 'to knock the head'
Summary: kowtowing in Brief
'Kowtowing' [kou-tou-ing] is a verb that describes acting in an excessively subservient manner, especially towards someone in authority. It can also mean showing too much respect to someone in authority, always doing what they want and not expressing any disagreement. Examples include 'He was accused of kowtowing to the boss' and 'The government was criticized for kowtowing to foreign powers.' Phrases include 'kowtow to someone's demands,' 'kowtow to authority,' and 'kowtow to public opinion.'
