Respect
/rɪˈspekt/
Definitions
3 meaningsDue regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of others.
/rɪˈspekt/
A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.
He has earned the respect of his colleagues.
💡 Simply: Respect is like feeling good about someone or something because they are good, or they have done great things. Imagine you see a hero on TV. You probably feel respect for them.
👶 For kids: Feeling good about someone or something because they're special or have done something good.
More Examples
Show respect for your elders.
How It's Used
"I have great respect for her achievements."
"The elders in the community are shown respect."
To hold (someone or something) in high esteem; to have due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of others.
/rɪˈspekt/
To admire (someone or something) deeply, as a result of their abilities, qualities, or achievements.
I respect her opinion, even if I disagree.
💡 Simply: To respect someone is to think highly of them and treat them well. Imagine you respect a teacher, so you listen to them and do your homework.
👶 For kids: To treat someone or something nicely and show you think they're important.
More Examples
He respects his parents' wishes.
We should respect the environment.
How It's Used
"I respect his decision even if I don't agree with it."
"We respect our customers' privacy."
An act or instance of treating or regarding with honor or esteem.
/rɪˈspekt/
Polite behavior or regard shown towards someone or something.
The company showed respect for its employees by offering flexible hours.
💡 Simply: Showing respect is when you act nicely toward someone or something, like being polite and considerate. Imagine you're at a library. You show respect by being quiet.
👶 For kids: Being nice and polite to someone or something.
More Examples
Treat others with respect.
How It's Used
"Show respect for the flag."
"Different cultures have different customs regarding respect."
Synonyms
Admiration
Esteem
Regard
Admire
Honor
Civility
Consideration
Courtesy
Idioms & expressions
show respect
To behave in a manner that shows honor or esteem towards someone or something.
"It is important to show respect for the elderly."
with all due respect
Used to express disagreement or challenge someone politely.
"With all due respect, I don't think that's the right approach."
From Middle English respecten, from Old French respecier, from Latin respectus, past participle of respicere ('to look back at, regard'), from re- ('back, again') + specere ('to look').
The word respect has been used since the 14th century, reflecting an enduring human value.
Memory tip
Think of a person you admire and the feelings you have for them.