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defer to sb/sth

formal phrasal verb with defer
 
/dɪˈfɜːr/
 
US  /-ˈfɝː/ verb [T] (-rr-)

Definition

to allow someone or something to make decisions for you or tell you what to do, even if you disagree with them, because of your respect for them or because of their higher rank, authority, knowledge, etc.: I have to defer to my boss on important decisions. I defer to (= accept) your judgment.Showing respect and admirationAccepting and agreeing reluctantlyAccepting and agreeingApproving and approval
(Definition of defer to sb/sth from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

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