Kowtowing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe excessive subservience or sycophantic behavior, often to someone in power. It implies a lack of self-respect.

• The employee was always kowtowing to the boss, hoping for a promotion.
• Some politicians are accused of kowtowing to big corporations rather than representing their constituents.

Conveys a sense of abject submission or begging, often on one's knees. It's highly negative and suggests a loss of dignity.

• He had to grovel at his supervisor's feet after making a huge mistake at work.
• Nobody should have to grovel to get what they deserve.

To fawn means to flatter excessively in order to gain favor or advantage, often to someone in a higher position. It can imply insincerity.

• The intern was constantly fawning over the senior executives, trying to create a good impression.
• She tends to fawn over influencers and celebrities online.

A phrase that means someone is showing a lot of deference or respect, often in an exaggerated way. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• He didn't have to bow and scrape to get the committee's approval.
• Many employees feel they need to bow and scrape to the new manager to stay in his good graces.

Used to describe someone showing excessive deference, often to gain favor. It has a negative connotation, indicating a lack of self-respect.

• He was accused of kowtowing to the boss just to secure a promotion

Used in both religious and non-religious contexts to describe the act of lying flat on the ground, often as a sign of deep respect, submission, or dedication.

• During the ceremony, the monks performed prostration before the altar

Generally used in formal or traditional settings to show deep respect or homage. It can be used without negative connotations and often involves a bow or gesture.

• The knight made a deep obeisance to the queen as a mark of his loyalty