slavish devotion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slavish devotion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an excessive or unquestioning loyalty to someone or something, often implying a lack of independent thought. Example: "His slavish devotion to the company's policies made it difficult for him to voice any concerns about the management's decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mnuchin is very good at displaying slavish devotion to Trump.

The Washington Post

It was true, an almost slavish devotion to salutation.

The New York Times - Travel

Due to his slavish devotion to ethics, he's been fired.

The New Yorker

"I completely believe in slavish devotion to culinary tradition," she said.

The New York Times - Food

We need a proper survey of public opinion, not a slavish devotion to TV audience figures.

Independent

Like any Queen Bee, she has her entourage of followers, who emulate her with slavish devotion.

The New Yorker

He has criticized what he called blacks' "slavish devotion" to Democrats.

The Washington Post

Since his death in 1984, Ansel Adams has earned an almost slavish devotion among photography fans.

The New York Times

If anything, the incident exposed their slavish devotion to the Trump campaign.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mardi Gras in subsequent years has reverted to its almost slavish devotion to costumery and tradition.

The Guardian - Opinion

She showed a slavish devotion to the concept of a recommended serving size, even when it was half a cupcake".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slavish devotion" to critically describe unwavering loyalty that might be excessive or detrimental to independent thought. For example, "His slavish devotion to the company blinded him to its ethical failings."

Common error

The term "slavish devotion" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of independent thought. If you intend to express strong positive dedication, consider using alternatives like "unwavering commitment" or "zealous dedication" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slavish devotion" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes a state of extreme and unquestioning loyalty, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slavish devotion" is a noun phrase denoting excessive and uncritical loyalty. While grammatically correct and frequently used, it often carries negative connotations, suggesting a lack of independent thought. Ludwig's analysis confirms its common occurrence in news and media, with its usage serving to critically describe situations where dedication is perceived as detrimental or unquestioning. When aiming for a more positive depiction of commitment, consider alternatives like "unwavering commitment" or "zealous dedication". As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is correct and usable, yet its inherent negativity warrants careful consideration in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

devoted adherence

Focuses on faithful and dedicated support.

unquestioning loyalty

Highlights unwavering allegiance without doubt or reservation.

unwavering commitment

Highlights steadfast and resolute dedication.

blind faith

Implies unwavering belief without questioning or critical thinking.

dogged commitment

Implies persistent and unwavering dedication despite obstacles.

zealous dedication

Emphasizes enthusiastic and passionate commitment.

inflexible adherence

Highlights a rigid and uncompromising loyalty to rules or principles.

fanatical adherence

Suggests extreme and obsessive commitment to a belief or cause.

servile obedience

Indicates compliance to the point of being subservient or submissive.

utter submission

Suggests complete surrender and compliance to another's will.

FAQs

What does "slavish devotion" mean?

The phrase "slavish devotion" describes an excessive or unquestioning loyalty or dedication to someone or something, often implying a lack of independent thought or critical assessment. It typically carries a negative connotation.

What can I say instead of "slavish devotion"?

You can use alternatives like "unquestioning loyalty", "blind faith", or "zealous dedication" depending on the context. Keep in mind that "slavish devotion" often has a negative implication.

Is "slavish devotion" a positive or negative term?

"Slavish devotion" generally carries a negative connotation. It suggests that the devotion is so complete that it lacks critical thought or independent judgment. Consider the context carefully before using this phrase.

How to use "slavish devotion" in a sentence?

Use "slavish devotion" to describe a situation where someone's loyalty is so extreme that it seems uncritical or even self-destructive. For example, "The dictator demanded slavish devotion from his followers."