DEFERENCES Synonyms: 44 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'deference' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of deference are homage , honor , and reverence . While all these words mean "respect and esteem shown to another," deference implies a yielding or submitting to another's judgment or preference out of respect or reverence. // showed no deference to their elders

Q: In what contexts can 'homage' take the place of 'deference'?

The words homage and deference can be used in similar contexts, but homage adds the implication of accompanying praise. // paying homage to Shakespeare

Q: When is 'honor' a more appropriate choice than 'deference'?

The words honor and deference are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, honor may apply to the recognition of one's right to great respect or to any expression of such recognition. // the nomination is an honor

Q: When might 'reverence' be a better fit than 'deference'?

The synonyms reverence and deference are sometimes interchangeable, but reverence implies profound respect mingled with love, devotion, or awe. // great reverence for my father

deference

noun

ˈde-fə-rən(t)s

Definition of deference next

as in obedience

a readiness or willingness to yield to the wishes of others the sycophantic deference with which the hotel treats celebrity guests

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How does the noun deference differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of deference are homage, honor, and reverence. While all these words mean "respect and esteem shown to another," deference implies a yielding or submitting to another's judgment or preference out of respect or reverence.

showed no deference to their elders

In what contexts can homage take the place of deference?

The words homage and deference can be used in similar contexts, but homage adds the implication of accompanying praise.

paying homage to Shakespeare

When is honor a more appropriate choice than deference?

The words honor and deference are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, honor may apply to the recognition of one's right to great respect or to any expression of such recognition.

the nomination is an honor

When might reverence be a better fit than deference?

The synonyms reverence and deference are sometimes interchangeable, but reverence implies profound respect mingled with love, devotion, or awe.

great reverence for my father

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of deference The business judgment rule protects directors from personal liability if the board errs, and courts have repeatedly given wide deference to HOA decisions made within the rule. —

Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Jan. 2026 The giver might quietly start expecting gratitude, loyalty or deference in return, whether consciously or not. —

Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 2026 But although his Hoosiers are on top of the college football world, Jackson-Davis is sure to show proper deference when identifying the state’s premier football program. —

Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 18 Jan. 2026 The Business Judgment Rule protects directors from personal liability if the board errs, and courts have repeatedly given wide deference to HOA decisions made within the BJR. —

Kelly G. Richardson, Oc Register, 16 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for deference

Recent Examples of Synonyms for deference

Noun

Thus the sign helps the greengrocer to conceal from himself the low foundations of his obedience, at the same time concealing the low foundations of power.

— Ezra Klein, Mercury News, 28 Jan. 2026
One where belonging doesn't depend on performance, obedience, or getting it right the first time.

— Danielle Marie Holland, Parents, 27 Jan. 2026