Kowtow

To kowtow is to act in an obsequious manner; to show servile deference. It often involves a deep bow, sometimes to the ground, as a sign of respect or submission. It can represent a genuine show of respect, but more commonly implies a forced or insincere act meant to appease someone in authority or gain favor. The term's origins lie in the Chinese term "koutou," a traditional deep bow of respect. It emphasizes a willingness to degrade oneself to please or gain advantage from another.

Kowtow meaning with examples

• During the royal visit, the courtiers were expected to kowtow, bowing deeply before the queen. This traditional gesture demonstrated their loyalty and respect for her authority and the monarchy. The precise choreography and depth of each bow indicated the rank of the subject.
• The ambitious young executive was willing to kowtow to the CEO's demands, even when disagreeing. He hoped that his subservience would be rewarded with a promotion, and that it would eventually prove successful for his career.
• After the political scandal, the disgraced politician had to kowtow to the press, offering public apologies and attempting to regain public trust. It became obvious that he would be forever changed from the political firestorm.
• Accused of plagiarism, the author was forced to kowtow to the critics, issuing a statement of contrition and attributing the relevant passages of the novel. He understood that his reputation had been tarnished by his mistakes.