顺从 means 'to obey' or 'to comply', describing willing, respectful submission to authority, instruction, or expectation—often with a connotation of harmony rather than resistance. The character 顺 (shùn) means 'smooth', 'in order', or 'to go along with'; 从 (cóng) means 'to follow' or 'to obey'. Together, they evoke the idea of moving smoothly in alignment with another’s will—not out of fear alone, but with acceptance and cooperation.

This word is commonly used in contexts involving human relationships (e.g., children obeying parents, students following teachers), training (especially of animals), and social expectations. It carries a neutral-to-positive tone when voluntary and respectful, but can imply excessive passivity if used critically. Unlike the more forceful 服从 (fú cóng), 顺从 emphasizes natural agreement and gentle acquiescence, often highlighting emotional or relational harmony.