Kowtow to Meaning in English
expression
释义
To act in an excessively obedient or submissive way toward someone important or with power, often to gain favor or avoid trouble.
用法与细微差别
Kowtow was borrowed from Chinese, and now means showing exaggerated, often insincere obedience. Usually negative; implies loss of dignity. Common in business, politics, or authority situations: 'kowtow to the boss'. Not used for normal respect—means going too far.
例句
She always kowtows to her manager and agrees with everything he says.
basic
Some politicians kowtow to wealthy donors to get support.
basic
You don't need to kowtow to people who treat you badly.
basic
He refuses to kowtow to anyone, no matter how important they are.
natural
The company expects employees to kowtow to every decision from the top.
natural
Stop trying to kowtow to the clients—they respect honesty more than flattery.
natural