Translation

へつらう / 卑屈な / ごますりの

Meaning

Obsequious describes someone who is too eager to please, flatter, or obey a powerful person. It is negative, suggesting servility rather than sincere respect. The trap is using it as a positive word for polite or attentive service.

Examples

• 彼は上司の前ではへつらうような笑みを浮かべました。
  He wore an obsequious smile in front of his boss.
• その大臣の側近たちは、記者の目にはごますりに見えました。
  The minister's aides seemed obsequious to reporters.