Bowing: meaning, definitions and examples

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bowing

[ˈbaʊɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

The technique of playing a string instrument with a bow, typically used in classical music.

Synonyms

playing with a bow, using a bow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bowing	Also used in music to describe the action of using a bow to play a string instrument, although it can be redundant with 'playing with a bow'. Her bowing technique is flawless. The violinist was bowing energetically during the performance.
playing with a bow	Specifically refers to the action of using a bow to produce sound on string instruments such as violins, cellos, and violas. She's playing with a bow to achieve a softer tone. The instructor demonstrated the correct method of playing with a bow.
using a bow	More general term that can refer to both string instruments and other uses, like archery or crafting. In archery, using a bow requires great focus. He is using a bow to play the cello beautifully.

Word

Description / Examples

bowing

Also used in music to describe the action of using a bow to play a string instrument, although it can be redundant with 'playing with a bow'.

Her bowing technique is flawless.
The violinist was bowing energetically during the performance.

playing with a bow

Specifically refers to the action of using a bow to produce sound on string instruments such as violins, cellos, and violas.

She's playing with a bow to achieve a softer tone.
The instructor demonstrated the correct method of playing with a bow.

using a bow

More general term that can refer to both string instruments and other uses, like archery or crafting.

In archery, using a bow requires great focus.
He is using a bow to play the cello beautifully.

Examples of usage

She was a master of bowing on the violin.
The cellist demonstrated perfect bowing technique.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

greeting

The act of bending the body forward as a gesture of respect or greeting.

Synonyms

bend, obeisance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bowing	Bowing is often used to describe the action of lowering the upper body as a sign of respect or greeting, commonly seen in cultural contexts like Asian countries or formal events. During the ceremony, all participants were bowing to the altar. He was bowing in respect as he was introduced to the elders.
bend	Bend typically refers to the action of making something curved or to move one's body so that it is not straight. It's a more general term and can apply to both physical actions and objects. She had to bend down to pick up the keys from the ground. The tree began to bend under the weight of the snow.
obeisance	Obeisance is a formal term for a gesture or movement showing respect or homage, often involving bowing. It is more commonly used in historical or literary contexts. He showed his obeisance by kneeling before the king. The people's obeisance to their leader was evident during the parade.

Word

Description / Examples

bowing

Bowing is often used to describe the action of lowering the upper body as a sign of respect or greeting, commonly seen in cultural contexts like Asian countries or formal events.

During the ceremony, all participants were bowing to the altar.
He was bowing in respect as he was introduced to the elders.

bend

Bend typically refers to the action of making something curved or to move one's body so that it is not straight. It's a more general term and can apply to both physical actions and objects.

She had to bend down to pick up the keys from the ground.
The tree began to bend under the weight of the snow.

obeisance

Obeisance is a formal term for a gesture or movement showing respect or homage, often involving bowing. It is more commonly used in historical or literary contexts.

He showed his obeisance by kneeling before the king.
The people's obeisance to their leader was evident during the parade.

Examples of usage

He greeted the king with a deep bow.
The students showed their appreciation with a bow.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

music

To play a string instrument with a bow.

Synonyms

play with a bow, use a bow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bowing	This term is also used to describe the technique of using a bow to play a string instrument, like a violin or cello. Her bowing technique on the violin was impeccable. The cellist's bowing created a rich and deep sound.
play with a bow	Used specifically for describing the action of using a bow to produce music on string instruments. He learned how to play with a bow during his music lessons. Playing with a bow requires much practice and precision.
use a bow	Can be applied more generally to situations involving a bow, whether for musical purposes or archery. To play the violin, you need to know how to use a bow. Archers must train extensively to use a bow accurately.

Word

Description / Examples

bowing

This term is also used to describe the technique of using a bow to play a string instrument, like a violin or cello.

Her bowing technique on the violin was impeccable.
The cellist's bowing created a rich and deep sound.

play with a bow

Used specifically for describing the action of using a bow to produce music on string instruments.

He learned how to play with a bow during his music lessons.
Playing with a bow requires much practice and precision.

use a bow

Can be applied more generally to situations involving a bow, whether for musical purposes or archery.

To play the violin, you need to know how to use a bow.
Archers must train extensively to use a bow accurately.

Examples of usage

She was bowing the cello beautifully.
The musician bowed the violin with skill.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

In many Asian cultures, bowing is a traditional greeting and shows respect, especially in Japan and Korea.
In some African cultures, bowing is part of ceremonies to honor elders or important figures.
In Western traditions, bowing is often associated with theater, where actors bow to the audience to show gratitude.

Historical Origins

The act of bowing can be traced back to ancient civilizations, seen in hieroglyphics of Egyptians paying respect to their pharaohs.
In medieval Europe, bowing was a sign of fealty, where knights would bow to their lords to show loyalty.
Some historians believe bowing originated as a gesture to show vulnerability, indicating one poses no threat.

Body Language

Bowing can convey various emotions; a deep bow can express profound respect, while a slight nod signifies casual acknowledgment.
In body language studies, bowing is viewed as a submissive gesture, showing the person is not in a position of power.
The angle and depth of a bow can vary in meaning across cultures, influencing social interactions.

Performance and Arts

In ballet and theater, performers often bow at the end of a show to thank the audience for their support.
In traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, bowing plays a key role in demonstrating humility and respect toward guests.
Bowing is often part of martial arts ceremonies, where practitioners bow to instructors as a sign of respect.

Etiquette

In formal settings, knowing how and when to bow can be essential for proper etiquette in diplomatic relations.
Some cultures have specific rules on bowing; for example, a lower bow may indicate greater respect.
Bowing is often included in etiquette training for individuals interacting with foreign dignitaries.

Translations

Translations of the word "bowing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reverência

🇮🇳 झुकना

🇩🇪 Verbeugung

🇮🇩 membungkuk

🇺🇦 поклін

🇵🇱 ukłon

🇯🇵 お辞儀 (ojigi)

🇫🇷 révérence

🇪🇸 reverencia

🇹🇷 eğilme

🇰🇷 절 (jeol)

🇸🇦 انحناء

🇨🇿 úklona

🇸🇰 úklon

🇨🇳 鞠躬 (jūgōng)

🇸🇮 priklon

🇮🇸 beygja sig

🇰🇿 иілу

🇬🇪 მოხრა

🇦🇿 əyilmək

🇲🇽 reverencia

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,283, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14280 brigades
14281 vainly
14282 insulting
14283 bowing
14284 cape
14285 leaflet
14286 melodies
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