Basic Details
Word: Servile
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Showing an excessive willingness to serve or please others; overly submissive.
Synonyms: Submissive, obsequious, slavish, fawning
Antonyms: Assertive, independent, dominant, confident
Idioms and Phrases
- Servile attitude: A mindset of unquestioning obedience or submission. Example: "His servile attitude towards his boss annoyed his coworkers."
- Servile flattery: Excessive and insincere praise given to gain favor. Example: "The politician was surrounded by advisors who offered servile flattery instead of honest feedback."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She resented his servile behavior, which made him seem weak and dependent.
Example 2: The servant bowed in a servile manner, hoping to avoid his master's anger.
Example 3: His servile nature kept him from voicing his own opinions during meetings.
Fun Fact
Did you know that "servile" comes from the Latin word servilis, meaning "of a slave"? It was originally used in Roman times to describe the behavior of slaves who were expected to obey without question.
Famous Quote
"A servile man can never be truly free." Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "servile" mean?
a) Brave and bold
b) Willing to serve or please others excessively
c) Loud and aggressive
d) Slow and steady
Answer: b) Willing to serve or please others excessively
2. Which of these is a synonym of "servile"?
a) Assertive
b) Obsequious
c) Independent
d) Arrogant
Answer: b) Obsequious
3. Which is an antonym of "servile"?
a) Submissive
b) Obedient
c) Assertive
d) Flattering
Answer: c) Assertive
4. Which sentence uses "servile" correctly?
a) Her servile attitude impressed the interview panel with its boldness.
b) He acted in a servile way, agreeing to everything without question.
c) The servile storm destroyed the village overnight.
d) Servile means to walk quickly in cold weather.
Answer: b) He acted in a servile way, agreeing to everything without question.
5. What does the phrase "servile flattery" mean?
a) Honest appreciation
b) Flattery mixed with anger
c) Excessive praise to gain favor
d) Criticism in a kind tone
Answer: c) Excessive praise to gain favor
