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.
In habeas doctrine, the danger has always been that federal review becomes so deferential that even substantial constitutional claims are transformed into sterile questions of state-court reasonableness.
From Slate • Apr. 10, 2026
Until the 1960s, most broadcasting was dry and deferential.
From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026
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
"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
His face assumes a deferential expression and he gestures broadly toward an entrance on the opposite side.
From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen
Vocabulary lists containing deferential
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