deferential

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.

Hicks was deferential to the Democratic candidates who have long served in public office and have compelling personal tales and the experience to take the helm of the state.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

"The tech industry has been given deferential treatment - I think we're seeing that start to change."

From BBC • Jan. 26, 2026

"He was intensely serious but showed flashes of humour. He encouraged debate although his officers were deferential," Pike wrote in a 2019 book.

From Barron's • Jan. 12, 2026

In general, the law is deferential to police, giving officers significant discretion to use force, making it difficult to hold them criminally or civilly liable.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

Half of her wanted to be very rude to it; the other half of her wanted to be polite and deferential.

From "Coraline" by Neil Gaiman