# servilely

**Pronunciation:** /ˈsɜːrvaɪli/ · SUR-vyle-lee

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning

In a manner showing an excessive willingness to serve or please others, often at the expense of one's own dignity.

## Examples

- He servilely apologized for the mistake, even though it was clearly his manager's fault.
- The sycophant servilely flattered the CEO in hopes of a promotion.
- She servilely followed every instruction without ever questioning the morality of the task.

## Synonyms

- meekly — Suggests quiet submission rather than active flattery.
- submissively — Neutral term for yielding to authority.
- obsequiously — Stronger, emphasizing excessive, fawning obedience.
- fawningly — Emphasizes the insincere, flattering nature of the service.

## Antonyms

- assertively — Acting with confidence and self-respect.
- defiantly — Openly resisting authority.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/servilely

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