How Do You Spell BOW TO?

Pronunciation: [bˈə͡ʊ tuː] (IPA)

The spelling of "bow to" can be confusing due to the multiple meanings and pronunciations of the word "bow." In this context, "bow" is pronounced as /baʊ/, with an "ow" sound like in "cow." The word "to" is pronounced as /tu/, with a short "u" sound like in "cup." Together, "bow to" is pronounced as /baʊ tu/, with the stress on the first syllable. This phrasal verb can mean to bend in respect or to submit to someone's authority.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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BOW TO Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "bow to" is a phrasal verb used to describe an action that signifies respect, deference, or submission towards someone or something. It can have both literal and figurative meanings.

    In its literal sense, "bow to" refers to the physical act of bending forward from the waist as a gesture of respect, humility, or obedience. This can include a variety of bowing styles, such as a deep bow, a slight nod, or a curtsey, depending on cultural norms and contexts.

    Figuratively, "bow to" entails acknowledging or yielding to someone's authority, opinions, or wishes. It signifies assent, compliance, or submission to a superior, whether it be an individual, an organization, or a dominant ideology. This can be seen in phrases such as "bowing to someone's demands" or "bowing to public pressure."

    The phrase can also imply recognizing the superiority or excellence of something or someone, indicating admiration or acknowledgement of their achievements, talents, or qualities. For example, one might say "bow to the master" to denote showing reverence or awe towards a highly skilled or accomplished individual.

    Overall, "bow to" conveys the act of according respect, obedience, recognition, submission, or deference to someone or something, either physically through a gesture or metaphorically through acknowledgment and compliance.

Common Misspellings for BOW TO

  • vow to
  • now to
  • how to
  • gow to
  • biw to
  • bkw to
  • blw to
  • bpw to
  • b0w to
  • b9w to
  • boq to
  • boa to
  • bos to
  • boe to
  • bo3 to
  • bo2 to
  • bow ro
  • bow fo
  • bow go
  • bow yo

Etymology of BOW TO

The term "bow to" has Germanic origins. It can be traced back to the Old English word "būgan", which means "to bend, stoop, or give reverence". This word evolved over time and eventually became the Middle English word "bowen". The current form, "bow", emerged in the 14th century, and it refers to the act of bending one's body as a form of respect or submission.

Idioms with the word BOW TO

  • bow to sth The idiom "bow to something" means to submit or yield to a particular authority, rule, opinion, or decision. It implies showing respect or acceptance towards a superior entity or a dominant force.
  • bow to (someone or something) The idiom "bow to (someone or something)" means to show respect, deference, or submission to a person, authority, or force. It can also imply acknowledging and yielding to someone's superior position or accepting their opinions or practices.
  • bow to demands The idiom "bow to demands" means to submit or yield to someone's requests or commands, often out of a sense of obligation, pressure, or fear. It implies giving in or complying with the demands or expectations of another person or group.
  • bow to someone's demands The idiom "bow to someone's demands" means to submit or yield to the requests or requirements of someone else, often under pressure or with reluctance.
  • bow to (one's) demands The idiom "bow to (one's) demands" means to yield or submit to someone's requests, demands, or commands, often reluctantly or under pressure. It implies giving in or surrendering to another person's desires or wishes.
  • bow to sm's demands The expression "bow to someone's demands" means to yield or submit to someone's requests, commands, or requirements, often under pressure or in a position of inferiority. It implies giving in and complying with someone else's desires or demands, without resisting or standing up for oneself.
  • bow to the porcelain altar The idiom "bow to the porcelain altar" is a humorous and euphemistic expression used to describe the act of vomiting or throwing up into a toilet. It refers to the gesture of bowing or kneeling in front of the porcelain toilet bowl, humorously comparing the act of vomiting to a form of worship or submission.