respect 1 of 2

1
2
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
Making union registration swift, objective, and transparent would demonstrate genuine respect for the rule of law – and for the workers whose labor drives Cambodia’s growth. Sourcing Journal, 15 Oct. 2025 For too long in Kansas, the Republican Party has been dominated by extremists who see no room for moderation or bipartisanship, let alone unity or mutual respect. Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2025
Verb
And my wallet and I respect that. Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 13 Oct. 2025 Chenal noted that the Lions have playmakers across the field, including speedy receivers on the outside and running backs who must be respected in the ground game. Jesse Newell, New York Times, 11 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for respect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for respect
Noun
  • Chiefs pass game coordinator Joe Bleymaier says one helpful aspect is that each receiver seems to have genuine respect and admiration for the guys around them.
    Jesse Newell, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025
  • His sense of decency and fairness has earned him not only admiration, but genuine affection from everyone.
    Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • In many regards, the evenings feel like a comfortable jam session with friends.
    Mark Gray, PEOPLE, 20 Oct. 2025
  • Everyone is keenly aware that Ukraine is at a demographic disadvantage vis-à-vis Russia, which continues to hurl infantry soldiers into the war with little regard for their lives.
    Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 19 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Much of her content is focused on safety in regards to sun exposure.
    James Manso, Footwear News, 17 Oct. 2025
  • The players, according to sources close to the squad, do not know what to expect with regards to Postecoglou’s future — there is a mood of uncertainty.
    Paul Taylor, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Visit after dark to admire the city lights reflecting off the waves and pick up something unique, like a one-of-a-kind hat or jewelry made with sea glass.
    Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2025
  • For too long, cultural currency has been admired but not measured.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Her fans started donating $13 — Swift’s favorite number — to the Monterey Bay Aquarium to show their appreciation for the singer.
    Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Its clothing doesn’t come cheap — a nylon tunnel down hooded jacket costs $1,075 — but its investment in material innovation and appreciation of (and ability to intertwine with) modern culture has contributed to its enduring popularity.
    Steve Salter, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • This book overflows with literary references and sailing knowledge.
    The Know, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025
  • The outfit served as the second consecutive time the three-time Super Bowl champion wore an autumnal outfit with a low-key reference to the woodsy track.
    Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The Japanese Club from Torrey Pines High School also joined the celebration, offering an interactive origami booth and teaching students basic greetings in Japanese.
    News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Other generic holiday greetings also may be used on Yom Kippur.
    Krys'tal Griffin, Freep.com, 2 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • For much of D’Angelo’s career, critics seemed to most appreciate his brilliance by way of comparison.
    Vann R. Newkirk II, The Atlantic, 18 Oct. 2025
  • At the same time, Harrison appreciates the love and support she's received from the online community, which has only strengthened her desire to continue the series.
    Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Respect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/respect. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

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