Here's why:
* Power Dynamics: "Compliant" can suggest that someone is yielding to authority or pressure, potentially without fully understanding or agreeing with the request.
* Lack of Agency: It can imply a lack of self-assertion and an inability to stand up for one's own beliefs or interests.
* Passive Acceptance: "Compliant" can be used to describe someone who simply goes along with what they are told, without questioning or challenging the situation.
However, it's not always negative:
* In specific contexts, "compliant" can be a positive thing. For example, a "compliant patient" may be someone who diligently follows their doctor's instructions, leading to positive outcomes.
* It can also be used in a neutral way to describe something that meets specific standards or requirements. For example, a "compliant building" might simply mean a building that adheres to building codes.
In summary:
While "compliant" can be used neutrally, its connotation often leans towards the negative, implying a lack of independence, submissiveness, or a lack of critical thinking. It's important to consider the context and the speaker's intention to determine the intended meaning.