complaisant - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
complaisant Word Meanings
- willing to please others
- obliging or accommodating
- eager to help
complaisant Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
complaisant Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəmˈpleɪ.zənt/
US
/kəmˈpleɪ.zənt/
complaisant Word Etymology
The word 'complaisant' comes from the Latin 'complacens', meaning 'pleasing'. It evolved through Old French before entering English. Picture a person overly eager to please, bending over backwards to satisfy others, illustrating the essence of being complaisant.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Complaisant describes a person who is eager to please others, often going out of their way to accommodate requests and smooth social interactions. It implies a cooperative, obliging attitude, sometimes to the point of self-effacement. In use, it can carry a neutral or slightly critical tone depending on context: some might admire the warmth and helpfulness, others may see it as weakness or lacking assertiveness. The adjective can pair with nouns such as behavior, personality, or attitude: a complaisant host, a complaisant colleague, a complaisant response. The word derives from Latin complacens, bringing a sense of pleasing. Keep in mind the nuance of balance between kindness and boundary-setting.
Usage Reminders
- Be mindful: complimenting, agreeing, and accommodating are not the same as surrendering boundaries.
- Use in formal and informal contexts with similar nuance.
- Pair with a noun to specify behavior: a complaisant attitude, a complaisant employee.
- Balance kindness with assertiveness to avoid sounding passive.
- If in doubt, choose a lighter synonym like obliging or accommodating.
Common Misconceptions
- It always means 'say yes to everything' rather than choosing boundaries.
- It is a synonym for being pushy or weak, depending on context.
- It implies flattery rather than helpfulness.
- The term is always positive; it can be negative in some situations.
- It describes behavior toward others only, not attitudes about self.
Thinking Differences
Learners often think complaisant means always agreeable, but it also carries a nuance of willingly accommodating others, which can blur boundaries if not balanced with assertiveness.
Learning Tips
- Practice saying no politely in low-stakes situations
- Compare complaisant with obliging and accommodating to sense subtle differences
- Notice tone: is it proactive or surrendering boundaries?
- Use role-play to test boundary-setting in social contexts
- Read example sentences to feel nuance in different registers
- Keep culturally aware by observing local politeness norms
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'complaisant'?
A.Showing a willingness to please
B.Being rude and dismissive
C.Feeling uncertain and anxious
D.Acting in a selfish manner
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using 'complaisant'.
A.He was always complaisant when expressing his opinions.
B.The complaisant waiter was eager to fulfill every request without question.
C.Her complaisant attitude often left her friends feeling unappreciated.
D.They found it hard to be complaisant during the heated debate.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'complaisant'?
A.Indifferent
B.Stubborn
C.Obliging
D.Abrasive
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'complaisant'?
A.Agreeable
B.Disagreeable
C.Friendly
D.Supportive
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might be described as 'complaisant'?
A.The manager was strict and uncompromising in negotiations.
B.He demonstrated a complaisant demeanor, always willing to accommodate others' ideas.
C.During the meeting, she made sure everyone felt included and valued.
D.The children were disruptive and uncooperative with the teacher.
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