Submissively: meaning, definitions and examples

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submissively

[səbˈmɪsɪvli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

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. She nodded submissively when her boss gave her instructions
obediently	When someone follows rules, commands, or instructions faithfully and without question. The students sat down obediently when the teacher entered the room
compliantly	When someone agrees to follow rules or instructions, typically showing a willingness to conform. He completed the tasks compliantly, ensuring everything was done as requested
meekly	When someone behaves in a very quiet, gentle, and non-confrontational manner, often suggesting a lack of confidence. She spoke meekly, barely raising her voice above a whisper
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. He always acted subserviently towards his superiors, never questioning their decisions

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.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

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. She agreed submissively to her superior's demands. He accepted the blame submissively, without arguing.
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. He knocked on the door timidly, unsure of what to expect. She raised her hand timidly to ask a question in class.
meekly	Best used when describing someone who shows patience and gentleness, often avoiding confrontation. It has a slightly negative connotation of weakness. He spoke meekly, afraid of causing any trouble. The child agreed meekly to go to bed early.
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. He acted subserviently, agreeing to everything his boss said. She followed orders subserviently, without any question.
shyly	Ideal for describing a person who is nervous or timid in social situations. It often implies a lack of confidence or reticence. She smiled shyly at the compliment. The boy hid behind his mother and waved shyly to the crowd.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'submissively' comes from the Latin root 'submissionem', meaning 'a yielding to' or 'to put under'.
The prefix 'sub-' means 'under', while '-missive' is related to the Latin 'mittere', which means 'to send'.
The transformation from Latin to Old French, then into English, shaped its current form and meaning.

Psychology

In psychology, submissiveness can be linked to personality traits such as agreeableness, fostering harmony in relationships.
Some studies suggest that individuals might display submissive behavior in order to maintain social bonds and minimize conflicts.
Contradictory to popular belief, submissiveness does not always indicate weakness; it can be a strategic choice in social dynamics.

Literature

Submissive characters often appear in stories to reflect themes of power dynamics and personal sacrifice.
Classic literature, such as 'Pride and Prejudice', often features characters who navigate societal expectations through submissive behaviors.
In modern literature, dismissive protagonists may challenge traditional roles, revealing deep internal conflicts.

Cultural Perspectives

Different cultures interpret submissiveness in various ways; in some societies, it signifies respect, while in others, it may be seen as a lack of agency.
In certain contexts, submissive roles are culturally accepted and honored, particularly in hierarchical societies.
The concept of submissiveness is often explored in the context of gender roles, highlighting issues around equality and autonomy.

Pop Culture

In contemporary media, submissiveness is often portrayed in relationships within genres such as romance and BDSM, igniting discussions on consent and power exchange.
Reality TV shows sometimes feature submissive characters whose compliance contrasts with more dominant personalities, creating drama.
Famous quotes from movies or songs may romanticize the idea of being submissive as a form of love or devotion.

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

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,654 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
31651 hooligans
31652 blurb
31653 chauvinist
31654 submissively
31655 disabuse
31656 exculpate
31657 loftily
...