Deferentially: meaning, definitions and examples

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deferentially

[ˌdefəˈrenʃəli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a respectful and polite manner

Showing deference or respect; respectful; courteous.

Synonyms

courteously, politely, respectfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deferentially	Used when showing deep respect and submission, often implying a recognition of someone's higher status or authority. She spoke deferentially to the judge, acknowledging his position in the court
respectfully	Used to show regard and consideration, often towards someone's opinions or experiences. Can be used in both formal and informal settings. He listened respectfully to his colleague's feedback during the meeting
courteously	Used when displaying polite and considerate behavior, usually in everyday interactions, regardless of the other person's status. He always greets customers courteously, making them feel welcome
politely	Used in general interactions to indicate good manners and respect for others' feelings. It's often about following social norms. She declined the offer politely, so as not to offend

Examples of usage

He smiled deferentially at the elderly lady.
She nodded deferentially to her boss.
The waiter spoke deferentially to the customers.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in a way that shows submission or yielding to another's authority

In a manner that acknowledges the superiority of another; submissively.

Synonyms

compliantly, obediently, submissively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deferentially	Used when showing a polite respect and submission to someone's authority or opinion, often in formal or hierarchical settings. He spoke deferentially to the company CEO, acknowledging her expertise
submissively	Used when someone shows a readiness to conform to the authority or will of others, often with a connotation of weakness or lack of assertiveness. This word can have a negative or pejorative connotation. She nodded submissively as her boss criticized her work
obediently	Used when someone follows commands or rules faithfully, often reflecting a sense of duty or obligation, whether in personal, professional, or military contexts. The dog sat obediently when its owner told it to
compliantly	Used when someone is willing to agree or follow the rules without resistance, typically showing willingness to comply with a request, rule, or instruction. She complied with the new company policy without complaint

Examples of usage

He lowered his head deferentially before the king.
The employees bowed deferentially to the CEO.
She followed his instructions deferentially.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'deferentially' comes from the Latin root 'deferre,' which means 'to bring down' or 'to yield,' highlighting the idea of giving way to someone else's opinion.
It entered the English language in the early 19th century, evolving from the concept of deference, which emphasizes respect for authority or tradition.
The suffix '-ly' indicates that the word describes how someone behaves, making it an adverb used to describe actions.

Cultural Context

In many cultures, being deferential is a sign of good manners and is seen as a way to show respect for elders or authority figures.
In some Asian cultures, deferential behavior is deeply rooted in the concept of 'respect for hierarchy,' where younger individuals are expected to show reverence to their elders.
In Western settings, being deferential can be seen as thoughtful, but excessive deference may sometimes be interpreted as a lack of confidence.

Psychology

Psychological studies suggest that demonstrating deference can strengthen social bonds and foster positive interpersonal relationships.
People who practice deference often experience reduced levels of anxiety in social situations, leading to more harmonious interactions.
Conversely, refusal to show deference may result in confrontations or perceived challenges to authority, which can disrupt harmonious relationships.

Literature

In classic literature, characters who act deferentially may be portrayed as wise or noble, often earning the respect of others.
Authors often use characters' deferential behaviors to highlight themes of power dynamics and social class, revealing deeper insights into their societies.
Works by Jane Austen frequently explore the nuances of social deference, illustrating how it affects relationships and social standing.

Pop Culture

In many films and television shows, deferential characters are often portrayed as loyal sidekicks or trusted advisors, underscoring their role in supporting the main character.
Certain public figures and leaders emphasize the importance of showing deference to promote teamwork and unity within their groups or organizations.
The concept can also be seen in online interactions, where individuals may adopt a more deferential tone to avoid conflict and promote collaboration.

Translations

Translations of the word "deferentially" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reverentemente

🇮🇳 सम्मानपूर्वक

🇩🇪 ehrerbietig

🇮🇩 dengan hormat

🇺🇦 шанобливо

🇵🇱 z szacunkiem

🇯🇵 礼儀正しく (れいぎただしく)

🇫🇷 respectueusement

🇪🇸 respetuosamente

🇹🇷 saygılı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 경건하게 (gyeong-geonhage)

🇸🇦 باحترام

🇨🇿 uctivě

🇸🇰 uctivo

🇨🇳 恭敬地 (gōngjìng de)

🇸🇮 spoštljivo

🇮🇸 virðingarfyllst

🇰🇿 құрметпен

🇬🇪 პატივისცემით (pativistsemit)

🇦🇿 hörmətlə

🇲🇽 respetuosamente

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,292 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
34289 badgering
34290 overfeeding
34291 dallied
34292 deferentially
34293 outclassed
34294 withe
34295 stratify
...