Deferential Meaning in English
word
Definition
Being polite and showing respect for someone, especially because they are older or have more authority.
Usage & Nuances
'Deferential' is formal and describes attitude or behavior. Common with 'to be', 'in a deferential tone', or 'deferential manner'. Not the same as just being polite—implies extra respect or submission to status or opinion.
Spanish: respetuoso - deferentePortuguese (BR): respeitoso - deferentePortuguese (PT): respeitoso - deferenteChinese (Simplified): 恭敬的 - 尊重的Chinese (Traditional): 恭敬的 - 尊重的Hindi: आदरपूर्ण - सम्मानसूचकArabic: مُتَفَرِّض - مُحْتَرِمBengali: সম্মানশীল - শ্রদ্ধাশীলRussian: почтительный - уважительный (в поведении)Japanese: 敬意を表する - 丁重なVietnamese: kính trọng - tỏ ra tôn kínhKorean: 공손한 - 경의를 표하는Turkish: saygılı - hürmetkârUrdu: مؤدب (بزرگوں یا اہلِ اختیار کے لیے خاص احترام والا)Indonesian: penuh hormat - sopan (kepada yang lebih tua/berkuasa)
Example Sentences
He gave a deferential answer to his teacher.
basic
The staff were always deferential to the hotel manager.
basic
She spoke in a deferential manner at the meeting.
basic
He’s always deferential around his boss, almost afraid to disagree.
natural
Her deferential attitude made a good impression on the panel.
natural
People in that culture tend to be more deferential toward elders.
natural