恭敬 gōngjìng deferential
deferential; respectful
How to remember 恭敬: 恭 polite + 敬 to respect = deferential.
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How it is used
- Respectful and deferential in manner toward someone above you - 态度恭敬 (tàidù gōngjìng) a respectful attitude, 恭敬地行礼 (gōngjìng de xínglǐ) to bow respectfully.
- About outward deferential behavior; contrast 尊敬 (zūnjìng), which is inner respect/esteem you hold for someone.
- Note the saying 恭敬不如从命 (gōngjìng bùrú cóngmìng) - obeying beats being polite.