obsequious

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'obsequious' is correct and usable in written English.
It means overly obedient or submissive, often used to describe behavior that is excessively eager to please or fawn over someone else. You can use 'obsequious' in formal or academic writing, as well as in more casual contexts depending on the tone and context of the writing. Example: The obsequious waiter hovered over the table, eager to fulfill every request of the impatient and demanding customer.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

— Wings Over Scotland (@WingsScotland) May 14, 2014 Considering how friendly, bordering on obsequious, the questioning is, Osborne looks incredibly uncomfortable and nervous.

The Guardian

Self-respect did not prevent them from asking the prime minister obsequious questions which had been written for them by Whips.

The Guardian

It has been behind a petition urging sponsors to stop supporting an "opaque, obsequious ranking, where nationalism trumps quality, sexism trumps diversity and the spotlight is on the celebrity chef instead of the health and satisfaction of the customer".

The Guardian - Business

Add in an obsequious mainstream media, and it is rather remarkable that so many Barisan Nasional campaigners still felt the need to resort to blatant vote-buying.All of this gives rise to two dangers.

The Economist

The most influential institutions in Iran's elaborate power-structure, including the Revolutionary Guards, the Guardian Council, the presidency and parliament, are all still run by direct appointees of the supreme leader or by people unfailingly obsequious to him.Yet Mr Khamenei wields his power lightly, to the extent that he often seems aloof.

The Economist

In Federalist 76 Alexander Hamilton justified the consultative role of the Senate on the grounds that it would discourage a president from appointing people who were "personally allied to him" or who were so insignificant and pliable that they would turn into "obsequious instruments of his pleasure".The question now is whether the Senate will play its proper constitutional role.

The Economist

Alexander Hamilton wrote that "of those men who have overturned the liberties of republics, the greatest number have begun their career by paying an obsequious court to the people; commencing demagogues, and ending tyrants".Greg Platt SingaporeSIR – John Adams observed that "Democracy never lasts long.

The Economist

Mr Mbeki has now stopped espousing his dreadful view that AIDS is not caused by a virus, but still shows little enthusiasm for the anti-AIDS measures that almost everyone believes are needed.The archbishop complainsThe biggest row, however, came in November, when Archbishop Desmond Tutu dared point out that a culture of "sycophantic, obsequious conformity" is emerging under Mr Mbeki.

The Economist

Yet those who conclude that hugely-inflated "fat-cat" salaries, obsequious boards and docile shareholders must be endured forever as unfortunate by-products of capitalism have not been paying much attention to the news.

The Economist

These weekly half-hour bouts embody everything that puts voters off politics: obsequious platitudes from the ambitious, brayed slogans and juvenile attempts to wrong-foot opponents from others.

The Economist

She has stuffed her cabinet with obsequious puppets—or "sock-lickers," as Argentines call them thus building an administration that cannot exist without her.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obsequious" to precisely describe behavior that is excessively eager to please or obey, often to the point of being insincere or manipulative. It adds a layer of critical observation.

Common error

Avoid using "obsequious" when you simply mean someone is respectful or polite. "Obsequious" carries a negative connotation of insincerity and excessive flattery.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "obsequious" typically functions to describe a noun, indicating a quality of being excessively eager to please or obey. Ludwig examples show it modifying nouns like "mainstream media", "instruments", "puppets", emphasizing their subservient nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "obsequious" describes someone excessively eager to please or obey, often implying insincerity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. While it's frequently found in News & Media, it's essential to use it judiciously, recognizing its negative connotation. Common synonyms include "servile", "fawning", and "sycophantic", each offering slightly different nuances. Remember to avoid using "obsequious" when you simply mean respectful or polite, as "obsequious" carries a strong judgmental tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

servile

Implies a lack of independence and an excessive willingness to serve.

submissive

Indicates a readiness to yield to the authority or will of others.

fawning

Suggests exaggerated flattery or affection to gain favor.

sycophantic

Highlights the act of using flattery to win approval from authority.

obsequient

A less common synonym, emphasizing dutiful compliance.

ingratiating

Focuses on the intention to gain favor or acceptance.

toadying

Implies acting as a toady, a flatterer who tries to please someone in authority.

bootlicking

A more informal term suggesting extreme flattery and subservience.

slavish

Indicates a lack of originality and blind imitation.

deferential

Indicates respect and politeness, sometimes to an excessive degree.

FAQs

How can I use "obsequious" in a sentence?

Use "obsequious" to describe someone excessively eager to please or obey, often in a way that seems insincere. For example, "The "obsequious waiter" hovered around the table, anticipating every need."

What's a good substitute for "obsequious"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "servile", "fawning", or "sycophantic". Each carries a slightly different nuance but conveys a similar meaning of excessive eagerness to please.

What is the difference between "obsequious" and "respectful"?

"Obsequious" implies excessive flattery and insincerity, while "respectful" suggests genuine politeness and consideration. Someone respectful shows appropriate deference, while an obsequious person goes overboard in trying to please.

Is it appropriate to describe someone as "obsequious"?

Yes, but be mindful of the negative connotation. Using "obsequious" suggests that the person's behavior is insincere and motivated by a desire for personal gain, so ensure your assessment is accurate.