Bow and scrape Meaning in English
expression
释义
To show too much respect or obey someone in a way that seems servile or insincere, often just to get their approval or favor.
用法与细微差别
This is usually negative or critical, implying insincerity or weakness. Common in contexts about power, bosses, or authority. Rare in daily conversation; mostly used in writing or formal speech.
例句
He always bows and scrapes to his boss.
basic
People should not have to bow and scrape for respect.
basic
She refused to bow and scrape just to get a promotion.
basic
Do you really think bowing and scraping is going to impress them?
natural
He spent his whole career bowing and scraping to people in power, but it never paid off.
natural
If you want to get ahead here, you don't have to bow and scrape—just do your job well.
natural