Translation guide
The English word 'kowtow' refers to an act of kneeling and bowing deeply to show extreme respect or submission, often used figuratively to describe obsequious behavior. In Japanese, the physical act is called 土下座 (dogeza), while the figurative sense can be expressed with various phrases for groveling or excessive flattery.
To describe the traditional act of kneeling and touching one's head to the ground as a sign of deep respect or submission.
The standard Japanese term for the act of kneeling on the ground and bowing deeply, often to apologize or beg for forgiveness. It is a culturally recognized gesture of extreme contrition.
彼は上司に土下座して謝った。
He kowtowed to his boss to apologize.
土下座は日本では深い謝罪の意思を示す。
Dogeza shows a deep intention of apology in Japan.
The verb phrase meaning 'to perform dogeza'. Used when describing the action.
彼は土下座をして許しを請うた。
He performed a dogeza and begged for forgiveness.
To describe behavior where someone shows too much respect or obedience, often to gain favor, similar to 'grovel' or 'fawn'.
An onomatopoeic verb meaning to bow repeatedly or act obsequiously. It conveys a sense of fawning or being overly deferential, often used in casual contexts.
彼は上司にぺこぺこしている。
He's always kowtowing to his boss.
Literally 'grinding sesame seeds', this noun/する-verb refers to flattery or apple-polishing. It implies insincere praise to gain favor, similar to 'brown-nosing'.
彼のごますりにはうんざりだ。
I'm fed up with his kowtowing.
A verb meaning to flatter, fawn, or curry favor. It often carries a negative connotation of insincere subservience.
Means 'to become obsequious' or 'to act servile'. It describes a state of being overly submissive, often used in psychological or descriptive contexts.
彼は上司の前では卑屈になる。
He becomes obsequious in front of his boss.
To describe the act of showing extreme deference, often in a political or social context, where one submits to a higher power.
A four-character compound meaning to bow deeply and humbly, often used to describe a profound apology or extreme deference. It can be used both literally and figuratively.
彼は平身低頭して謝罪した。
He kowtowed and apologized profusely.
Means 'to yield' or 'to submit'. It implies giving in to pressure or authority, often used in contexts of surrender or capitulation.
彼らは権力に屈服した。
They kowtowed to power.
The English word 'kowtow' is derived from Chinese, but in Japanese, the direct equivalent 叩頭 (こうとう) is rarely used in modern conversation. Instead, use 土下座 for the physical act or the figurative phrases listed above.
土下座 refers specifically to the formal kneeling bow, often in serious apologies. ぺこぺこする is a casual, onomatopoeic expression for bowing repeatedly or acting obsequiously in everyday situations.
He's always kowtowing to those in power.