The word "complaisance" is spelled as kəmˈpleɪzəns, with the stress on the second syllable. The "com" prefix comes from Latin and means "together," while "plaisance" comes from Old French and means "pleasure." The word refers to the quality of being willing to please or agree with others, especially in a submissive or compliant way. Although the spelling of "complaisance" may be tricky to remember, its meaning is clear and important in understanding social interactions.
Complaisance, noun [kom-pley-zuhns]
Complaisance refers to the quality or state of being willing to please others, displaying amiability and agreeableness in one's behavior. It is characterized by a disposition to accommodate the desires or requests of others, often manifested through helpfulness, attentiveness, and a willingness to compromise. Complaisance is rooted in the virtue of kindness and the ability to adapt to different situations with flexibility and understanding.
A complaisant individual demonstrates a willingness to go out of their way to assist or satisfy others, often putting aside their own preferences. This can involve engaging in small acts of attentiveness, such as active listening, or in more significant acts of goodwill, like willingly adjusting one's plans to ensure the comfort or satisfaction of others. Complaisance is driven by empathy and a genuine desire to contribute to positive social interactions.
While complaisance is a commendable trait that promotes amicability and fosters harmonious relationships within communities, it can also have its drawbacks. Excessive complaisance may lead to a lack of assertiveness, potentially resulting in individuals being taken advantage of or subjugating their own needs. Thus, it is important to strike a balance between being accommodating and assertive, considering both the well-being of others and oneself.
In summary, complaisance embodies an attitude of being obliging and accommodating towards others, contributing to a positive social atmosphere through acts of kindness, attentiveness, and flexibility.
Desire of pleasing; civility.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "complaisance" originated from the French term "complaisance", which can be traced back to the Latin word "complacere". In Latin, "complacere" means "to please", derived from the combination of "com-" (meaning "together") and "placere" (meaning "to please"). Over time, "complaisance" developed in English as a noun to describe the quality or state of being obliging, agreeable, or accommodating.