respect
Definitions
To admire someone deeply because of their qualities or achievements.
尊敬；敬重
To accept or comply with rules, wishes, or rights.
遵守；尊重（规则、意愿、权利）
A feeling of deep admiration; due regard for someone or something.
尊敬；敬意
A particular point or aspect.
方面；点
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedre- (back) + spect (look) = 'to look back at.' When you respect someone, you turn back to look at them with regard — you acknowledge them. The «in respect of» / «with respect to» sense («looking back at a particular angle») is the same image applied to topics: a respect is a face you can turn back to consider.
Root sp still carries 131 more wordsWhy It Means This
Respect is the spect-family word with the deepest social weight. The Latin re- + specere meant simply «to look back at» — but in Roman social life, taking the time to look back at someone was a marked act of recognition. From this came the «esteem» meaning. The same image lives on in «in this respect» and «with respect to» — different «looks» at a topic. Respect can be earned, lost, given, demanded — all transactions of attention. The opposite (disrespect) is the refusal to look back, the dismissive walk-past.
Usage Guide
- Esteem (verb/noun): «I respect her,» «show respect,» «earn respect»
- Comply with: «respect the rules,» «respect privacy» — honor a constraint
- In respect of / with respect to: formal way to say «regarding» («with respect to your question…»)
- In some respects: «in many respects, it's a good plan» — in certain aspects
- Stress: re-SPECT (verb); RE-spect or re-SPECT (noun, no fixed shift)
Example Sentences
- 1.
I respect your decision, even if I disagree.
- 2.
Drivers must respect the speed limit.
- 3.
She has earned the respect of her colleagues.
- 4.
With respect to your question, I need more time.
Easily Confused
respect vs admire — Both express positive regard, but «respect» can be granted without affection (you respect a tough opponent), while «admire» involves positive attraction or wonder. You can respect someone you don't like.