deference

[ˈdefərəns]

deference Definition

respectful submission or yielding to the judgment, opinion, will, etc., of another.

Using deference: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "deference" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He showed deference to his boss by always agreeing with him.

  • Example

    The students treated their teacher with deference and respect.

  • Example

    In some cultures, deference to elders is highly valued.

  • Example

    She spoke with deference to the judge.

deference Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for deference

Phrases with deference

  • out of respect or consideration for someone or something

    Example

    In deference to her religious beliefs, we served only vegetarian food at the party.

  • show respect or honor to someone or something

    Example

    The soldiers paid deference to the fallen comrade by standing at attention during the funeral.

  • a polite way of disagreeing with someone who is in a position of authority or seniority

    Example

    With all due deference, I must disagree with your assessment of the situation.

Origins of deference

from Latin 'deferentia', meaning 'carrying away'

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Summary: deference in Brief

'Deference' [ˈdefərəns] refers to respectful submission or yielding to the judgment, opinion, will, etc., of another. It is often shown to those in positions of authority or seniority, as in 'The students treated their teacher with deference and respect.' 'Deference' can also be expressed through phrases like 'in deference to,' which means out of respect or consideration for someone or something.