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
Synonyms for deference
Antonyms for deference
- disrespect
- contempt
- defiance
Phrases with deference
Example
In deference to her religious beliefs, we served only vegetarian food at the party.
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'
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.
