Although similar, synonyms have subtly different meanings and are used in different contexts. For example, the words calculate, cipher, cypher, figure, reckon and work out are all synonyms of each other because they have roughly the same meaning, but there are subtle differences. Test your synonym knowledge.
X a. servile
X b. obsequious
X c. slavish
X d. subservient
e. toadyish
XX 1. If you want to get ahead with your boss, you might try being __, which suggests an attitude of inferiority that may or may not be genuine, but that is assuumed in order to placate a superior in hopes of getting what one wants.
XX 2. While __ may connote similar behavior, it is more often applied to those who are genuinely subordinate or dependent and act accordingly, for example, a timid, __ child who was terrified of making a mistake.
XX 3. __ is a stronger and more negative term, suggesting a cringing submissiveness, for example, the dog's __ obedience to her master.
XX 4. __, suggesting the status or attitude of a slave, is often used to describe strict adherence to a set of rules or a code of conduct, for example, a __ adherence to the rules of etiquette.