respect 1 of 2

1
as in regard
relation to or concern with something specified with respect to your application

Synonyms & Similar Words

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respect

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb respect contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of respect are admire, esteem, and regard. While all these words mean "to recognize the worth of a person or thing," respect implies a considered evaluation or estimation.

after many years they came to respect her views

When can admire be used instead of respect?

While in some cases nearly identical to respect, admire suggests usually enthusiastic appreciation and often deep affection.

a friend that I truly admire

When could esteem be used to replace respect?

The words esteem and respect can be used in similar contexts, but esteem implies greater warmth of feeling accompanying a high valuation.

no citizen of the town was more highly esteemed

When might regard be a better fit than respect?

The words regard and respect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, regard is a general term that is usually qualified.

he is highly regarded in the profession

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of respect
Noun
In many respects, our final budget breaks political convention. Wes Moore, Baltimore Sun, 12 Apr. 2025 But Angus has been the heart of the band from day one, and with Brian Johnson back in the fold, this is a more legitimate incarnation of the group, with all respect to Axl Rose. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 11 Apr. 2025
Verb
Instead, Washington should honor its commitments, boost trade and investment, step up diplomatic engagement, and respect foreign countries’ agency. Lynn Kuok, Foreign Affairs, 14 Apr. 2025 President Putin, and everyone else, respected your President! Tara Suter, The Hill, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for respect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for respect
Noun
  • The draft does not set up in the Bengals’ favor in that regard, and analyzing their strategy to attack the positions could provide the storyline everyone ends up talking about with new coordinator Al Golden’s defense in August.
    Paul Dehner Jr., New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
  • The move from Butler to Wiggins has been damaging in that regard.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In some ways, this is a good metaphor for the experience of Ramsey, of whom their co-star speaks with particular admiration.
    Fernanda Pérez Sánchez, Vogue, 16 Apr. 2025
  • The product sold out within hours—prompting admiration, side-eyes, and curiosity in equal measure.
    Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • This renowned event transforms the charming coastal town into a haven for classic car aficionados, drawing thousands of visitors to admire an impressive array of vintage vehicles against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
    Rowan Briggs, Mercury News, 18 Apr. 2025
  • There are plenty of reasons to admire the Elan, not least of all its beauty.
    Robert Ross, Robb Report, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Give it up for the queen of not being afraid to reference or not reference (but mostly reference).
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The letter made no reference to the current economic conditions.
    Dade Hayes, Deadline, 17 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Yuskavage recounted that she was raised in a blue collar community in Pennsylvania, where there was little to no art on display, no contact with galleries and museums, and even less appreciation of art, or the possibility of being an artist.
    Tom Teicholz, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The rest of the evening was largely an energetic affair that oscillated between sincere appreciation and light humor, the latter of which began for co-host and winner Gold early in the event.
    Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 17 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Beachcombers and seashell hunters will appreciate the opportunity to find little treasures washed ashore.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Stickers: Fun stickers are always appreciated—and maybe the Easter Bunny will also bring your little one a special book to stick them in.
    Erinne Magee, Parents, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Kaye adds to the chorus of praise.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 14 Mar. 2025
  • McConaughey shared similar praise for Hudson in an April interview with People.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Ojai Valley Inn’s views its Spiritual Wellness program as a compliment to more traditional Spa and Wellness practices that are also offered such as a signature Ojai massage or a nature walk in within the Mind Body program.
    Yola Robert, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • To Benny Blanco, being compared to Bad Bunny quite the compliment!
    Daniela Avila, People.com, 7 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Respect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/respect. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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