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be deferential
[bi dɛfəˈrenʃəl]
verb phrase
ser deferente
1.
to show respect and courtesy; to yield to someone's opinion or judgment
She was deferential to her elders during the family meeting.
Ela foi deferente com seus mais velhos durante a reunião familiar.
2.
to act in a submissive or respectful manner toward someone of higher rank or status
The employees were deferential to the new director.
Os funcionários foram deferentes com o novo diretor.
Synonyms
be respectful
be courteous
be submissive
show deference
defer to
Antonyms
be disrespectful
be insolent
be impertinent
be arrogant
Regional Variations
General Brazilian
ser deferente
Standard usage in formal and informal contexts
São Paulo
ser respeitoso
Alternative used more commonly in business settings
Portugal
ser deferente
Standard usage, slightly more formal tone than Brazilian Portuguese
Related Idioms & Phrases
show respect
bend the knee to someone
give someone their due
defer to someone's judgment
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