Subservient: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used when describing a person or behavior that is excessively willing to obey others, often to the point of sacrificing their own interests. It has a negative connotation suggesting a lack of independence or excessive deference.

• She was so subservient that she never voiced her own opinion during meetings

Appropriate for situations emphasizing duty or obligation, like children obeying their parents or soldiers following orders. It doesn't inherently carry a negative connotation.

• The obedient child cleaned his room as soon as his mother asked

Applies well when talking about following orders, rules, or standards without question but doesn't necessarily imply the same level of negativity as 'subservient'.

• The company strives to be compliant with all industry regulations

Use this word when describing someone who is easily taught, led, or controlled. It generally suggests a calm and laid-back demeanor without a negative implication of submissiveness.

• The docile puppy quickly learned the commands his owner taught him

Best when describing a person who willingly accepts the authority of others, often at the cost of their own preferences or desires. It tends to have a slightly negative tone, indicating a lack of assertiveness.

• She adopted a submissive role in the relationship, rarely expressing her own needs

Used in situations where someone is excessively willing to serve or obey someone else, often seen as overly submissive or slavish.

• She was so subservient to her boss that she never voiced her own opinions

Used for someone or something that is considered lower in rank, quality, or position.

• He felt inferior to his colleagues because he didn't have as much experience

Used to describe someone who has a low social status or simple job, often indicating humility or lack of prestige.

• He started his career in a lowly position but worked his way up to become CEO

Often used when comparing two things, where one is considered of lower importance, size, or quality.

• Out of the two options, this one has a lesser impact on the environment

Describes something of second-level importance or not primary, often used in contexts like education or importance.

• Her secondary goal was to improve her fitness, while her primary goal was losing weight