Deferential

Meaning

Showing respectful submission to another's opinions or authority, sometimes excessively so.

Origin / Etymology

From Latin 'deferentem' (to bring down, submit), present participle of 'deferre'. Same root as 'defer' (to yield).

Synonyms

Respectful Submissive Acquiescent

Antonyms

Assertive Defiant Insubordinate

Example Sentence

"The Hindu's May 29, 2026 editorial argued that the Supreme Court's deferential treatment of the ECI's SIR exercise weakens institutional checks on administrative power."

🎯 UPSC Usage

GS2 Polity: Use precisely, judicial deference (Chevron doctrine in US, doctrine of judicial restraint in India), legislative deference. Often a critique-word when over-applied.

Relevant Subjects

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