# deference

/ˈdɛfɝəns/ (US) · /dˈɛfɹəns/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deference
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. respectful submission

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the act of showing respect by letting someone else make a decision or by following their advice.

For teachers: the act of yielding to the opinion, will, or judgement of another out of respect or recognition of their authority.

- He decided to wear a suit in deference to his grandfather's traditional views.
- The junior researchers spoke with quiet deference during the meeting, acknowledging the lead scientist's decades of experience in the field.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'in deference to'.

Teaching tip: Learners often confuse this with 'difference'. Remind them that 'deference' is about 'deferring' or yielding to someone else.

## Examples

- He showed great deference to his elders.
- The junior staff showed deference to the senior partner during the meeting, allowing him to lead the discussion.
- In many traditional cultures, deference is not merely a social courtesy but a legal requirement, ensuring that younger generations do not challenge the established authority of their ancestors.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.