obsequious
obsequious — adjective
- obsequiouspositive
- more obsequiouscomparative
- most obsequioussuperlative
1. so polite and admiring toward someone that it seems false, usually because you w
so polite and admiring toward someone that it seems false, usually because you want something from them like their approval, a promotion, or special treatment.
The junior manager's obsequious bow to the director embarrassed everyone who saw it.
collocation: obsequious bow (gesture of excessive respect)
Jabari cringed at his own obsequious tone when he spoke to the company's head.
collocation: obsequious tone (way of speaking)
After the inspection, Ramón described the staff's obsequious behavior as embarrassing.
Amelia found the constant obsequious nodding during meetings deeply irritating.
It was hard to respect an editor who accepted obsequious praise without question.
- sycophantic
more literary and even stronger in disapproval; describes someone who flatters powerful people for personal gain
- fawning
more vivid and body-language-focused; suggests exaggerated admiration shown through looks and gestures
- servile
emphasizes lack of dignity and willingness to do anything, like a servant; less about flattery and more about submission
- ingratiating
slightly milder; describes behavior intended to win favor, not always with the same degree of disapproval
- assertive
confident and direct without being rude; the opposite of excessively deferential
- dignified
calm and serious, with self-respect; contrasts with the self-lowering quality of obsequiousness
- respectful
shows genuine regard without going too far; positive version of deference
文法句型
obsequious + noun (behavior, smile, bow, tone, praise)
be obsequious to/toward someone
用法筆記
Strongly disapproving — never neutral. Frequently describes gestures (bow, smile, nod), speech (tone, praise, compliments), or general conduct (behavior, manner, attitude) toward a person in authority.