Dictionary-enhanced word family
Word Forms of “Kowtow”
To behave in an overly submissive or obedient way towards someone; to show excessive respect
Word Family of Kowtow
Some English words keep the same spelling as a noun and a verb. Context tells you which form is being used.
How to Use Each Word Form in a Sentence
- He refused to kowtow to the demanding boss's unreasonable requests. C2
- Some politicians kowtow to wealthy donors to secure funding. C2
- She would not kowtow to authority just to keep her job. C2
Origin and Word Formation of Kowtow
From Mandarin Chinese 'koutou' (knock head). A gesture of submission in imperial China; adopted into English in 19th century.
Common Word Form Mistakes with Kowtow
Wrong: They were kowtowing for keeping their jobs
Correct: They were kowtowing to keep their jobs
Use 'to keep' (infinitive) not 'for keeping' (gerund)
Wrong: She has kowtowed before her superiors always
Correct: She always kowtows to her superiors
Rephrase; 'always' placed differently; simplify verb tense
Frequently Asked Questions About Word Forms of Kowtow
What are the word forms of “kowtow”?
The confirmed forms are shown in the word family cards above. Missing parts of speech are hidden instead of filled with placeholder text.
What part of speech is “kowtow”?
“kowtow” is primarily a verb. Some forms above show how the same root works as other parts of speech.
Can “kowtow” be both a noun and a verb?
Yes. Some words keep the same spelling across parts of speech; the surrounding sentence shows the function.
Where does “kowtow” come from?
From Mandarin Chinese 'koutou' (knock head). A gesture of submission in imperial China; adopted into English in 19th century.