Kowtow: Meaning, Usage and Examples
Kowtow: deference and submission
Introduction
The word “kowtow” carries historical and cultural significance, referring to acts of deep respect or submission, often to the point of excessive compliance. Originally rooted in traditional customs, kowtow has evolved to describe submissive behavior in modern contexts. In this blog post, we’ll explore the meaning of “kowtow,” its origins, and how to use it effectively to describe acts of deference or subservience.
What Does “Kowtow” Mean?
“Kowtow” is a verb that means to show excessive deference or submission to someone in authority or power. The word can also be used more literally to describe the act of kneeling and touching one’s head to the ground as a sign of respect, as practiced in traditional Chinese customs.
Pronunciation:
/ˌkaʊˈtaʊ/
Part of Speech:
Verb
| Synonyms: | Antonyms: |
| Bow, submit, grovel, defer, prostrate oneself. | Defy, resist, oppose, disobey, challenge. |
How to Use “Kowtow” in Sentences
1. Describing Excessive Submission:
- “He refused to kowtow to unreasonable demands from his boss.”
- “Critics argued that the government was kowtowing to corporate interests at the expense of the public.”
2. Referring to Literal Acts of Respect:
- “In ancient ceremonies, subjects were required to kowtow before the emperor.”
Origins of “kowtow”
The word “kowtow” comes from the Chinese term kòu tóu (叩头), which means “to knock the head.” This ritual, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, involved kneeling and touching one’s forehead to the ground to show profound respect or submission, often toward rulers or elders.
Practice Using “Kowtow”
Reflect on scenarios where you may have seen someone overly submissive. How would you describe their behavior using the word “kowtow”?
- Example: “The intern’s eagerness to kowtow to every suggestion from the supervisor made them seem insincere.”
Create your sentences:
- Write a sentence about someone resisting the urge to kowtow.
- Describe a cultural or historical context where kowtowing was expected.
Common Phrases with “Kowtow”
“Kowtow to authority” – To submit unquestioningly to those in power.
- “The new employee was expected to kowtow to authority, even when orders seemed unreasonable.”
“Refuse to kowtow” – To stand one’s ground and resist undue submission.
- “Activists vowed to refuse to kowtow to oppressive policies.”
Conclusion
The word “kowtow” is a vivid way to describe submission, deference, or respect—whether literal or metaphorical. By understanding its origins and usage, you can effectively convey scenarios of subservience or resistance in your writing and conversations. Are you ready to use kowtow in your next thoughtful discussion?
Happy learning!
. . .
Cambridge Dictionary: Kowtow pronunciation and meanings
Kowtow is stronger than cooperate
In figurative use, kowtow to someone suggests excessive submission or deference. It normally expresses disapproval. Cooperating respectfully or accepting a reasonable request is not automatically kowtowing. The preposition to introduces the person or power receiving the deference.
Try it: Complete the pattern: “The character refuses to kowtow ___ the powerful landlord.”
Check the explanation
To. The sentence presents the behaviour as excessive submission, not ordinary politeness.
Dictionary reference: Merriam-Webster: Kowtow.
FROM READING TO PRACTICE
Practise this topic
Build on this article with a connected lesson. Explore the explanation, try the examples, and check what you remember.
Obsequious
Compare persuasion or deference with excessive eagerness to please.
Idiom lessonBend over backwards
Examine the difference between making a great effort and being overly submissive.
Grammar lessonTenses – 12 Types Simplified + Timeline
Practise choosing verb forms when using “kowtow” to describe actions over time.
Categories: Word of the Day-1