French translation of obsequious is 
obséquieux

Meaning of "obsequious" in English

The term "obsequious" describes a person who is excessively eager to please or obey others, often to an insincere or servile degree. This behavior is generally perceived as negative, reflecting a lack of self-respect and a willingness to submit just to gain favor or avoid conflict. An obsequious individual might constantly agree with others, flatter them extravagantly, or change their opinions to align with those of someone more powerful. These actions can be viewed as manipulative or deceitful, as they are primarily intended for personal gain rather than genuine cooperation or agreement.

Meaning of "obséquieux" in French

"Obséquieux" in French has a similar connotation to its English counterpart, referring to someone who shows excessive eagerness to serve or please others, often in a way that appears insincere or fawning. It conveys a sense of servility and over-attentiveness, where a person might act with exaggerated politeness or compliance to attract favor or approval. This trait is also generally perceived negatively, implying a lack of authenticity and independence. The behavior reflects a desire to ingratiate oneself with those perceived as superior, rather than engaging honestly or asserting one's own opinions.

Pronunciation of "obsequious" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /əbˈsiːkwiəs/

The pronunciation of "obsequious" does not significantly vary across major English dialects, though slight variations in stress and vowel sounds can occur. In British English, the ending "ous" might sound slightly more rounded compared to American English.

Pronunciation of "obséquieux" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ɔpsɛkjø/

Pronunciation of "obséquieux" primarily follows the standard Parisian accent in French. Regional accents might slightly alter the pronunciation, especially the vowel sounds, but major changes are rare, ensuring clarity in communication across different parts of France and French-speaking regions.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The intern's obsequious behavior annoyed his colleagues.
   (Le comportement obséquieux de l'apprenti agaçait ses collègues.)

2. She gave him an obsequious smile, hoping to gain his approval.
   (Elle lui a adressé un sourire obséquieux, espérant obtenir son approbation.)

3. His obsequiousness was evident when he agreed to every suggestion from the boss.
   (Son obséquiosité était évidente lorsqu'il acceptait toutes les suggestions du patron.)

4. The obsequious waiter constantly hovered around their table.
   (Le serveur obséquieux planait constamment autour de leur table.)

5. Despite his obsequious manners, he still failed to win their trust.
   (Malgré ses manières obséquieuses, il n'a toujours pas réussi à gagner leur confiance.)

6. She was surrounded by obsequious assistants attending to her every need.
   (Elle était entourée d'assistants obséquieux s'occupant de tous ses besoins.)

7. His obsequious flattery did not impress her.
   (Ses flatteries obséquieuses ne l'ont pas impressionnée.)

8. They were tired of his obsequious attitude during meetings.
   (Ils étaient fatigués de son attitude obséquieuse lors des réunions.)

9. The journalist's obsequious interview style made the guest uncomfortable.
   (Le style d'interview obséquieux du journaliste a mis l'invité mal à l'aise.)

10. Trying to be likable, he often came across as overly obsequious.
    (Essayant d'être aimable, il apparaissait souvent comme excessivement obséquieux.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "obsequious" in English

Synonyms: servile, fawning, sycophantic, subservient, ingratiating, groveling, deferential, toadying, bootlicking, slavish.

Antonyms: assertive, independent, proud, confident, rebellious, resistant, self-assured, unyielding.

Similar Words: compliant, pandering, flattering, submissive, accommodating, charming, obtrusive, compliant, unquestioning, biddable.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "obséquieux" in French

Synonyms: servile, flatteur, fayot, flagorneur, soumis, déférent, lécheur, rampant, humble, courtois.

Antonyms: assertif, indépendant, fier, confiant, rebelle, résistant, assuré.

Similar Words: docile, accommodant, complimenteur, captivant, complaisant, arrangeant, obséquence, flagornerie, soumission, adulateur.

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