showing deference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "showing deference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of showing respect or consideration towards someone, often in a formal or hierarchical context. Example: "In the meeting, she was careful to be showing deference to her senior colleagues, acknowledging their experience and opinions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

They were showing deference to religious doctrines that should have no place in the law).

The New York Times

Both principles, developed by the judges themselves over the years, are seen as showing deference to national legislatures and courts.

The Guardian

Youngsters were encouraged to express themselves on and off the pitch, instead of showing deference to their elders.

The Guardian - Sport

But he knew that showing deference to a black woman by calling her "Mrs. Evers" would harm his chances of winning a conviction.

The New York Times

And showing deference to free speech, he enjoined Montana laws banning knowingly false statements in election materials and requiring that materials disclose relevant voting records.

The New York Times

But the job requires being an honest broker for other advisers' views, knowing how government works and showing deference to Congress.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It shows deference to the states".

The New York Times

But Mr Bush has not exactly shown deference to Congress's oversight role.

The Economist

The fact that I had to show deference was one more reason that he irritated me.

The New Yorker

"Not only should we be listened to, we should be shown deference".

The New York Times

No matter how successful, Mr. Villarreal always showed deference to his boss, calling him "Papi".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about hierarchical relationships, use "showing deference" to emphasize respect for authority, tradition, or experience. It indicates a deliberate act of acknowledging someone's superior position.

Common error

Avoid using "showing deference" when simply describing politeness or general respect. The phrase implies a more significant power dynamic or a conscious act of yielding to someone's authority or experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "showing deference" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun in a sentence. It describes the act of displaying respect or yielding to someone, as shown in Ludwig's examples, where individuals are "showing deference" to elders, superiors, or established norms.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "showing deference" effectively describes the act of displaying respect and yielding to authority or seniority. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, formal business, and scientific contexts. While suitable for professional and formal communication, it's essential to use it accurately, emphasizing its focus on acknowledging superior positions rather than general politeness. Alternatives like "demonstrating respect" or "deferring to" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. Its frequent use in reputable sources highlights its relevance and acceptance in contemporary English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deferring to someone

Implies a conscious decision to allow someone else's opinion or decision to take precedence.

demonstrating respect

Emphasizes the act of actively displaying respect, often through actions or words.

exhibiting courtesy

Highlights politeness and good manners as a way of showing respect.

yielding to authority

Focuses on compliance and submission to a recognized power or figure.

respecting seniority

Specifically refers to showing deference based on age or experience.

paying homage

Suggests a more formal or ceremonial display of respect and admiration.

honoring tradition

Emphasizes respect for established customs and practices.

acknowledging superiority

Directly recognizes another's higher status or ability.

obeying instructions

Highlights compliance with specific commands or directives.

submitting to guidance

Focuses on accepting advice and direction from someone more knowledgeable.

FAQs

What does "showing deference" mean?

"Showing deference" means displaying respect and yielding to someone's authority, experience, or position. It implies a conscious acknowledgment of their superiority in a particular context.

How can I use "showing deference" in a sentence?

You can use "showing deference" to describe someone's behavior towards a superior, such as "The junior employee was "careful to" be "showing deference" to the senior manager during the meeting."

What can I say instead of "showing deference"?

You can use alternatives like "demonstrating respect", "exhibiting courtesy", or "deferring to" depending on the context.

Is "showing deference" the same as being polite?

While politeness can be a part of "showing deference", the latter implies a specific acknowledgment of someone's higher status, authority, or expertise. Politeness is more general, while "showing deference" is more contextual and hierarchical.