Definition of Kowtow
Quick Meaning of Kowtow
To behave in an overly submissive or obedient way towards someone; to show excessive respect
Detailed Definition of Kowtow
To act obsequiously or with excessive obedience to someone; to perform the kowtow (a gesture of extreme respect by kneeling and bowing); to show submission or servility
How to Pronounce Kowtow
Stress pattern: oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Pronounced /ˈkaʊtaʊ/ with stress on first syllable; both syllables have similar sound
Watch out: Check IPA: /ˈkaʊtaʊ/
Origin and Etymology of Kowtow
From Mandarin Chinese 'koutou' (knock head). A gesture of submission in imperial China; adopted into English in 19th century.
How to Use Kowtow in a Sentence
Each example shows “kowtow” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“He refused to kowtow to the demanding boss's unreasonable requests.”
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“Some politicians kowtow to wealthy donors to secure funding.”
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“She would not kowtow to authority just to keep her job.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Kowtow
Common Synonyms for Kowtow
Smart Synonyms for Kowtow — When to Use Each
- defer
- Respectfully yield to someone's opinion or authority
- submit
- Accept another's will or authority
Common Collocations with Kowtow
These phrases pair with “kowtow” in everyday English:
- kowtow to
- refuse to kowtow
- kowtow before
- kowtow to authority
Common Mistakes When Using Kowtow
Even fluent speakers slip up with “kowtow”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He kowtow to the authority every day
- ✓ Correct: He kowtows to the authority every day
- Why: Third person singular needs 's' ending: kowtows
- ✗ Wrong: They were kowtowing for keeping their jobs
- ✓ Correct: They were kowtowing to keep their jobs
- Why: Use 'to keep' (infinitive) not 'for keeping' (gerund)
- ✗ Wrong: She has kowtowed before her superiors always
- ✓ Correct: She always kowtows to her superiors
- Why: Rephrase; 'always' placed differently; simplify verb tense
Other Forms of Kowtow
Frequently Asked Questions About Kowtow
What is the meaning of "Kowtow"?
To behave in an overly submissive or obedient way towards someone; to show excessive respect
How do you pronounce "Kowtow"?
The IPA is /ˈkaʊtaʊ/. Pronounced /ˈkaʊtaʊ/ with stress on first syllable; both syllables have similar sound
What part of speech is "Kowtow"?
"Kowtow" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Kowtow"?
Common synonyms include submit, comply, obey.
How do you use "Kowtow" in a sentence?
For example: "He refused to kowtow to the demanding boss's unreasonable requests."