Vocabulary Spotlight
Deference
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: Respectful submission or yielding to the judgment, opinion, or will of another.
“In deference to her experience, the committee accepted her recommendations.”
Pronunciation
[def-er-uhns]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Courtesy
Obedience
Compliance
Submissiveness
Antonyms
Disobedience
Disregard
Rebellion
Disrespect
Related Words
Deferential (adjective)
Word Origin
“Deference” derives from the Latin “deferre,” meaning to carry down or yield. The word entered English in the 17th century, signifying respect and submission.
Word Family
Verb: Defer – To yield to another’s judgment or opinion.
Adjective: Deferential – Showing respect or yielding to another’s opinion.
Mnemonics
Think of “deference” as “defer-ence” — showing respect by deferring to someone else’s judgment or will.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In law, deference often involves respecting higher court rulings or the judgment of judicial authorities.
Business
In corporate settings, junior employees may show deference to senior executives’ decisions or guidance.
Education
Students might demonstrate deference to teachers or mentors by respecting their guidance and opinions.
In Context
Deference is often practiced in professional and social settings where showing respect for others’ authority or expertise is valued. It reflects both humility and acknowledgment of another’s influence or knowledge.