The Art of Deference: Respecting Our Elders
This video explores the concept of deference – the humble submission and respect shown to those of higher status or greater experience. Through examples and explanations, we’ll learn how deference is expressed in various cultural contexts and why it’s an important social skill to cultivate.
Imagine you’re at a formal dinner, and an elderly guest enters the room. Everyone stands up, offering their seat to the newcomer.
This act of respect and yielding to the status of another is a perfect example of our word for today: deference.
Word type: Deference is a noun.
Meaning: Deference refers to humble submission and respect shown to another, especially to someone older or of higher status.
It involves yielding to the judgment, opinion, or wishes of another out of respect or admiration.
Word history: The word deference has its roots in the mid sixteenth century.
It comes from the French word déférence, which itself is derived from the Medieval Latin differentia, meaning submission.
This, in turn, comes from the Latin verb deferre, which means to carry down or to yield.
Antonyms: Some words that mean the opposite of deference include disrespect, insolence, impudence, and defiance.
Synonyms: Words with similar meanings to deference include respect, reverence, regard, esteem, and homage.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how we can use deference in different contexts: In many cultures, children are taught to show deference to their elders by speaking politely and offering assistance.
The junior associate treated his supervisor with great deference, always considering her opinions before making decisions.
Out of deference to the host’s religious beliefs, the guests refrained from bringing alcohol to the dinner party.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing deference with difference. While they sound similar, difference means a point or way in which people or things are dissimilar.
Another error is using deference when preference is meant. Preference implies a greater liking for one thing over another, while deference is about showing respect.
Understanding and correctly using words like deference can significantly boost your vocabulary and comprehension skills for the GRE.
Remember, deference is about showing respect and yielding to others, particularly those in positions of authority or greater experience.
By mastering such nuanced words, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the verbal reasoning section of the GRE with confidence.
