Submissively: meaning, definitions and examples
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submissively
[ səbˈmɪsɪvli ]
in a manner that shows obedience or submission
In a submissive or obedient manner; showing a willingness to yield or surrender.
Synonyms
compliantly, meekly, obediently, subserviently.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| submissively |
When someone follows orders or accepts a situation without resistance, often suggesting a lack of assertiveness.
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| obediently |
When someone follows rules, commands, or instructions faithfully and without question.
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| compliantly |
When someone agrees to follow rules or instructions, typically showing a willingness to conform.
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| meekly |
When someone behaves in a very quiet, gentle, and non-confrontational manner, often suggesting a lack of confidence.
|
| subserviently |
With a willingness to serve others, often to the point of sacrificing one's own interests or dignity. This word has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She nodded submissively, accepting his decision.
- He spoke submissively to his boss, hoping to avoid any conflict.
- The dog approached submissively, with its tail between its legs.
in a manner that lacks assertiveness
In a way that lacks assertiveness or confidence; with a meek or timid attitude.
Synonyms
meekly, shyly, subserviently, timidly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| submissively |
Same as above, describing submission to authority or control without resistance. Often indicates a power imbalance.
|
| timidly |
Appropriate for describing someone who is showing fear, hesitation, or lack of courage. It's often used when a person is afraid to take action or speak up.
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| meekly |
Best used when describing someone who shows patience and gentleness, often avoiding confrontation. It has a slightly negative connotation of weakness.
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| subserviently |
Used when referring to someone who is excessively willing to serve or obey others. It has a strong negative connotation, implying a lack of independence or self-respect.
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| shyly |
Ideal for describing a person who is nervous or timid in social situations. It often implies a lack of confidence or reticence.
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Examples of usage
- She answered submissively, not daring to speak up.
- He behaved submissively in front of his aggressive colleague.
- The student raised his hand submissively, waiting for permission to speak.
Translations
Translations of the word "submissively" in other languages:
🇵🇹 submissivamente
🇮🇳 आज्ञाकारी तरीके से
🇩🇪 unterwürfig
🇮🇩 dengan patuh
🇺🇦 покірно
🇵🇱 ulegle
🇯🇵 従順に
🇫🇷 soumis
🇪🇸 sumisamente
🇹🇷 itaatkâr bir şekilde
🇰🇷 복종적으로
🇸🇦 بطريقة خاضعة
🇨🇿 podřízeně
🇸🇰 podriadene
🇨🇳 顺从地
🇸🇮 pokorno
🇮🇸 undirgefið
🇰🇿 бағынушылықпен
🇬🇪 დამორჩილებით
🇦🇿 tabe olaraq
🇲🇽 sumisamente
Etymology
The word 'submissively' is derived from the word 'submit', which comes from the Latin word 'submittere', meaning 'to lower, reduce, yield'. The concept of submission has been present in various cultures and societies throughout history, often associated with obedience, surrender, or deference to authority. The adverb 'submissively' reflects a demeanor or behavior characterized by compliance, meekness, or deference to others.