grovel
word
Definition
To behave in a way that shows you are very sorry or eager to please someone, often by lowering yourself or acting as if you are not important.
Usage & Nuances
'Grovel' is negative and implies loss of dignity; often used for exaggerated apologies or favor-seeking. Common in formal or disapproving contexts: 'grovel before the boss.' Not for casual or genuine apologies.
Spanish: arrastrarse - humillarsePortuguese (BR): humilhar-se - rastejarPortuguese (PT): humilhar-se - rastejarChinese (Simplified): 卑躬屈膝 - 匍匐（字面含义）Chinese (Traditional): 卑躬屈膝 - 匍匐（字面含義）Hindi: घिसटना - गिड़गिड़ानाArabic: يتذلل - يتملقBengali: হীনমন্যভাবে অনুনয় করা - নিজেকে ছোট করাRussian: унижаться - ползать в униженииJapanese: 卑屈にふるまう - ひれ伏すVietnamese: khúm núm - hạ mình quá mứcKorean: 비굴하게 굴다 - 굽신거리다Turkish: yalvarmak (aşağılayıcı şekilde) - küçülmekUrdu: گڑگڑانا (ذلت سے) - خود کو چھوٹا بنا کر معافی مانگناIndonesian: merendahkan diri - meratap-ratap
Example Sentences
He was practically on his knees, groveling for a second chance.
natural
He started to grovel when he realized his mistake.
basic
You don't have to grovel to get their forgiveness.
basic
Why do you grovel in front of him all the time?
basic
Don't grovel before your boss just to get a promotion.
natural
If you keep groveling, people won't respect you.
natural