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Submissive - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Submissive describes someone who willingly obeys or yields to others, often showing a lack of resistance. It can refer to behavior in relationships, animals, or social dynamics, implying passivity or compliance.

submissive

/səbˈmɪsɪv/ /səbˈmɪsɪv/

Definition:

Ready to conform to authority or others' will without resistance.

Synonyms:

compliant, docile, obedient, meek, yielding

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

defiant, rebellious, assertive

Common Collocations:

submissive behavior, submissive attitude, submissive role

Derivatives:

submissiveness, submissively

Usage Tips:

Use "submissive" to describe someone who willingly obeys or yields to others' control.

Common Phrases:

bow in submission, submit willingly, play the submissive role

Etymology:

From Latin "submissus," past participle of "submittere," meaning "to lower or yield."

Examples:

  • 1. The dog was submissive and obeyed every command.
  • 2. She adopted a submissive tone during the negotiation.
  • 3. His submissive nature made him an easy target for bullies.
  • 4. The employee remained submissive despite unfair treatment.

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