kowtow

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Smaller domestic military budgets also reduce the need for companies to kowtow to politicians by maintaining unprofitable operations in their districts or supporting civilian projects.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

The need to kowtow seems to have scarred Torres.

From New York Times • Feb. 29, 2024

He’s also asking for more streamlining in zoning to combat the rampant NIMBYism that prevents more shelters and interim housing, and that some elected leaders kowtow to on a regular basis.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2022

His refusal to kowtow to the traditions of Congress was writ large.

From Washington Post • Jul. 12, 2022

Or would Miss Love do like Mama and kowtow to Loma for the sake of peace in the family?

From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns