俯首

• Pinyin: fǔ shǒu
• Hanzi breakdown: 俯 = 亻 + 府 (bow down, bend forward); 首 = 首 (head)

Meaning

To bow one's head; to submit; to yield; to show deference or complete obedience.

A formal and literary expression. Commonly seen in set phrases such as 俯首帖耳 (completely submissive) and 俯首称臣 (to bow the head and declare oneself a vassal — submit entirely). Used in formal writing, historical narratives, and political rhetoric.

Examples

1. 面对强权的威胁，他始终拒绝俯首称臣，坚守了自己的原则。 In the face of threats from those in power, he steadfastly refused to bow and serve as a vassal, holding to his principles.
2. 战败的将领不得不在胜利者面前俯首认罪。 The defeated general had no choice but to bow his head and confess his guilt before the victors.
3. 真正有骨气的人不会轻易俯首于命运的摆布。 A person with real backbone won’t easily bow to the whims of fate.

Usage Guide

Context: literary, political, history

Tone: solemn

Do Say

• 他宁可牺牲，也绝不向侵略者俯首屈服。(He would rather sacrifice himself than bow his head in submission to the invaders.)
• 历史上每一个拒绝俯首的仁人志士都值得后人景仰。(Every person of integrity throughout history who refused to bow deserves the admiration of later generations.)

Don't Say

• 俯首看书 — 俯首 in set phrases means to submit; for simply looking down, use 低头 or 俯身 instead

Origin & History

俯 (bend/bow down) + 首 (head)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal