form of deference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "form of deference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a way of showing respect or submission to someone, often in social or professional contexts. Example: "In many cultures, bowing is a common form of deference shown to elders or authority figures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Some will always regard the very idea of "getting on", or getting away, as an insult to their origins, as even a new form of deference.

The Guardian - Opinion

If the building of a viable left coalition is possible, it is likely to require some thoughtful and humane co-optation in the form of deference to our limits and boundaries.

The New York Times

Viñoly describes his new 63,000 sq m tower in modest tones, referring to the way the building looms southward towards the Thames as a form of deference: he calls it "bowing to the river".

The Guardian - Arts

(In a way, blame is an inverted form of deference: it implies a faith that the authorities and experts and leaders could be impeccable).There is even, perhaps, a faint trace of magic in the blame syndrome.

The Economist

The seemingly casual style he exhibited with Rogers and with such subsequent film and TV partners as Cyd Charisse, Leslie Caron and Barrie Chase may have begun as a form of deference to his sister 18 months older and accepted as the more gifted when they performed in vaudeville as children.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Worst because one consequence of an excellent egalitarianism in our societies is a refusal to endorse the status of other people; older forms of deference have gone down.

The New Yorker

In the code of military etiquette silence and fixity are forms of deference.

TechCrunch

The Separation of Powers Restoration Act reverses both of these forms of deference by requiring a de novo standard of review.

Forbes

Jared Meyer: Since this bill requires a de novo (or new) judicial review of agency actions, would it not also affect other forms of deference besides Chevron, such as Auer deference and Skidmore deference?

Forbes

No president has shown this kind of deference.

The New York Times

The urge to cock snooks, however, is itself a sort of deference.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "form of deference" when you want to describe a specific way in which respect or submission is shown. Be mindful of the context to ensure it aligns with the level of formality and the nature of the relationship between the individuals involved.

Common error

Avoid using "form of deference" when the intent is to describe blind or unquestioning obedience. Deference implies respect and consideration, not necessarily agreement or compliance without thought.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "form of deference" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig's examples show it describing specific actions or behaviors expressing respect or submission.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "form of deference" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for describing acts of showing respect or submission. While relatively rare in occurrence, as shown by Ludwig, it finds its primary contexts in news and media, science, and formal/business settings. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Remember to use "form of deference" when a specific type of respect or submission is intended, and to avoid confusing it with blind obedience. Alternatives such as "gesture of respect" or "sign of submission" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gesture of respect

Focuses on a specific action that conveys esteem or regard.

show of respect

Broadly indicates any display of consideration or high regard.

act of reverence

Emphasizes a deep respect or veneration, often with a religious or spiritual connotation.

expression of reverence

Similar to 'act of reverence' but emphasizes the communication of deep respect.

sign of submission

Highlights the act of yielding to authority or another's will.

display of courtesy

Focuses on politeness and good manners.

token of esteem

Implies a tangible or symbolic expression of high regard.

act of homage

Stresses formal acknowledgement of allegiance or respect, historically to a feudal lord.

act of veneration

Suggests a high degree of respect, often bordering on worship.

mark of obeisance

Indicates a gesture or attitude of deep respect and subservience.

FAQs

How can I use "form of deference" in a sentence?

You can use "form of deference" to describe actions or behaviors that show respect or submission. For example, "Bowing is a common "form of deference" in many Asian cultures."

What are some alternatives to "form of deference"?

Alternatives include "gesture of respect", "sign of submission", or "act of reverence" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "form of deference" in formal writing?

Yes, "form of deference" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing social or professional interactions where respect and hierarchy are important.

What's the difference between "form of deference" and "blind obedience"?

"Form of deference" implies respect and consideration, while "blind obedience" suggests unquestioning compliance without critical thought. Deference involves acknowledging someone's position or authority, while obedience is simply following orders.