Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But his ease in doing so—the submissiveness of so many institutions here at home—swayed him into thinking the world would fall in line with similar pliance.

From Slate • Apr. 30, 2025

The attire has angered some relatives of Sept. 11 victims, who interpreted the gesture as submissiveness to the accused terrorists.

From New York Times • Mar. 10, 2022

Han is demure on the pool deck, often slipping into the background as teammates joke during breaks, but her shy smile shouldn’t be mistaken for submissiveness.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 24, 2022

He demands submissiveness and has no sense of playfulness.

From Salon • Apr. 29, 2020

Mr. Pontellier had been a rather couteous husband so long as he met a certain tacit submissiveness in his wife.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin