submissively

USAGE SUMMARY

'submissively' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a behavior that is carried out in a respectful and willing way, usually to an authority figure. For example, "The employee submissively accepted the terms of the new contract."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Below it, a row of handcuffed men sit on a wooden bench staring submissively toward the ground.

The Economist

With stereotypically black features, her hair wrapped in a bandanna, she crouches suggestively perhaps submissively, despite being more than 35-feet high.

The Economist

After presiding submissively over the convocation (1531) that declared Henry to be the head of the Church in England, Warham bravely published (February 1532) a dignified but emphatic protest against the enactments of the Reformation Parliament from 1529.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Females behaving submissively are gradually tolerated, particularly by unpaired males, enabling pair formation to proceed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Initially, the Carthaginians submissively sought the arbitration of Rome in these disputes, but more often than not Roman judgment went in favour of Masinissa.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The nurse she plays has up to this point in the film abhorred violence, but when Costner replies, "Men are gonna get killed here today, Sue, and I'm gonna kill them, you understand that?," she submissively answers, "Yes".

The New Yorker

Francis reproached them for not accepting abuse submissively.

The New Yorker

"Today's youth will not sit by submissively while being denied all the rights and privileges and joys of life," it read.

The New Yorker

The chestnut trees looked as though nothing could oblige them ever to shed their leaves; and when the wind bent the grass around the barren flat, submissively, the grass went all one color, silvery, like the underside of leaves, as if it might rain.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

When the sound of their voices stopped, she opened her eyes and looked out to see them kissing, while behind them the vast expanse of desert threw itself almost as far as the eye could see, but not quite, because on the horizon, just about lost in the haze, a plateau hunched submissively beneath a huge, vacant sky.

The New Yorker

In real life, ­Pienaar is probably a pungently ­forceful personality, but here he has to be ­submissively flavourless in deference to the chief.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "submissively" to depict actions performed with a yielding or compliant attitude, especially when highlighting the power dynamic between individuals or entities.

Common error

Avoid using "submissively" in situations where a character or entity should demonstrate strength or independence. Overusing it can create a perception of weakness or lack of agency where it's not intended.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "submissively" functions primarily to modify verbs, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. It describes actions carried out in a compliant, yielding, or unresisting way. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

17%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

9%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "submissively" is an adverb used to describe actions performed in a compliant or yielding manner. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and can be used in written English. It is commonly found in News & Media and Encyclopedia contexts, where it serves to highlight power dynamics or a lack of resistance. While generally neutral to formal in register, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid implying weakness unintentionally. Alternatives like "obediently" or "deferentially" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obediently

Focuses specifically on following commands or rules.

meekly

Implies a quiet and humble submission, often with a sense of timidity.

deferentially

Highlights respect and consideration for the opinions or wishes of another.

acquiescently

Suggests a reluctant or passive agreement without protest.

compliantly

Emphasizes adherence to a request or demand.

dutifully

Stresses a sense of obligation or responsibility in performing an action.

passively

Indicates a lack of active resistance or opposition.

humbly

Highlights modesty and a lack of arrogance in one's actions.

respectfully

Emphasizes politeness and esteem in one's behavior.

without resistance

Directly states the absence of opposition or struggle.

FAQs

How can I use "submissively" in a sentence?

You can use "submissively" to describe actions done in a yielding or compliant manner, such as, "The defendant listened "submissively" as the judge read the verdict."

What are some alternatives to saying "submissively"?

Alternatives to "submissively" include "obediently", "meekly", or "deferentially", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "submissively" in formal writing?

Yes, "submissively" is appropriate for formal writing when describing actions performed with compliance or obedience, especially in contexts involving authority or power dynamics.

What is the difference between "submissively" and "passively"?

"Submissively" implies a yielding or compliant action, whereas "passively" suggests a lack of active resistance or participation. One may act "submissively" to avoid conflict, while acting "passively" indicates a general lack of engagement.