WordUpWordupPerson

Deferential

usgb/ˌdefəˈrenʃl/Volume
Left Definition 1 of 1Right
LampPro Tip 1/3
Respect for AuthorityPlay
Use 'deferential' to show clear respect for someone with power or an important position, like a judge or elder. SlideWhen addressing the director, the committee used a deferential tone.
LampPro Tip 2/3
Politeness MattersPlay
Being deferential is not just about respect, it's about politeness, which affects how you say something. SlideHer deferential reply to the professor showed she valued his opinion.
LampPro Tip 3/3
Not Always PositivePlay
Sometimes 'deferential' can imply too much submission and thus be seen as a negative trait in certain contexts. SlideThe employee's deferential behavior was viewed as a lack of confidence in his own ideas.
Compare

Compare with

AcquiescentAttentiveComplaisantDocileObedientRespectfulReverentialSubmissive
Slide

Never forget "Deferential"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

App Store IconGoogle Play Store IconMicrosoft Store IconHuawei Store Icon
Left
Right,
Left
Right,
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension