Respect
noun/ɹɪˈspɛkt/Respect is a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something, often due to their abilities, qualities, or achievements. It also means showing politeness and consideration towards others, recognizing their value and dignity. It involves treating people with courtesy and honor.
Have you ever wondered about the difference between "respect" and simply being polite? While politeness is a way of showing respect, "respect" itself goes much deeper. It's about genuinely valuing someone or something, not just following social rules.
You might feel respect for an elder's wisdom, a brilliant scientist's work, or even a country's traditions. It's a feeling that comes from recognizing worth, and it often leads to treating that person or thing with care and consideration.
Is “respect” positive or negative?
“Respect” is a positive word — a compliment. "Respect" is a positive word. It indicates that you value someone or something highly, or that you treat them with courtesy and honor. It's always a compliment to say someone is "respectful" or "commands respect."
The different meanings of “respect”
“The students have great respect for their history teacher's knowledge.”
“Please show some respect for the local customs when you visit.”
Respect in a sentence
- “She earned the respect of her colleagues through her hard work and integrity.
- “It's important to teach children to respect their elders.
- “I have immense respect for doctors who work in challenging conditions.
- “You should always respect other people's opinions, even if you disagree.
- “The artist's unique style commanded respect from critics and fans alike.
- “We need to show more respect for the environment and protect our planet.
Common phrases with “respect”
Words similar to “respect” (and how they differ)
Admiration is a feeling of wonder, pleasure, or approval, often for someone's beauty, skill, or achievement, implying a stronger emotional connection than respect.
“Everyone felt great admiration for the gymnast's flawless performance.”
Esteem is a high regard or respect, often based on a person's reputation, character, or position, and can feel more formal or intellectual than general respect.
“She was held in high esteem by the entire academic community.”
Reverence is a feeling of deep respect, mixed with awe and wonder, often used in religious or spiritual contexts, or for figures of immense historical importance.
“The ancient temple was a place of deep reverence for the local people.”
Regard is a more general term for thinking about someone or something in a particular way, often with a positive opinion, but it's less intense than respect.
“He always spoke of his former teacher with high regard.”
Deference is respectful submission or yielding to the judgment, opinion, or will of another, often someone older or in a position of authority.
“Out of deference to the CEO, everyone agreed to postpone the meeting.”
Opposites of “respect”
Word family
Describes someone who shows respect, or an action that demonstrates respect. "He is a very respectful student."
Describes how an action is performed, in a way that shows respect. "She respectfully disagreed with her boss."
As a noun, it's the lack of respect. As a verb, it means to show a lack of respect. "Don't disrespect your parents."
Describes someone or something that is considered good, proper, or socially acceptable, earning respect. "He comes from a respectable family."
Where the word comes from
The word "respect" comes from the Latin word "respicere," meaning "to look back at" or "to look again," suggesting a careful and attentive consideration.
Frequently asked
What does "respect" mean?
"Respect" means having a deep admiration for someone or something due to their qualities or achievements, or showing politeness and consideration towards others.
Is "respect" positive or negative?
"Respect" is a strongly positive word. It implies valuing someone highly and treating them with honor and courtesy.
How do you use "respect" in a sentence?
You can say, "I have great respect for her dedication," or "Please show respect for the rules."
What's the difference between "respect" and "admiration"?
"Respect" is about valuing someone's worth or dignity, while "admiration" is more about feeling wonder or pleasure for their specific skills or achievements. You can respect someone without admiring everything they do.
Can you respect someone you don't like?
Yes, you can. You might not like a person's personality, but you can still respect their professional skills, achievements, or their right to their own opinions.
What does "mutual respect" mean?
"Mutual respect" means that two or more people feel and show respect for each other equally. It's a two-way street where everyone values and considers the others.