a respect for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a respect for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing admiration or consideration for someone or something. Example: "She has a deep respect for the traditions of her culture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A respect for life, and a respect for truth.

The Guardian

4. A respect for privacy.

Harvard University

Who's got a respect for precedent?

The New York Times

They taught me a respect for people, a respect for money.

The Guardian - Film

He has not displayed a respect for the constitution.

The Guardian

But you develop a respect for them without condescension.

The New Yorker

And they lack a respect for sustained routine.

The New York Times

He said students often betray a respect for him.

The Washington Post

Among the soldiers there is a respect for the logic.

The New York Times

"I think the players just had a respect for him.

The New York Times - Sports

A security guard demanded a respect for privacy.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a respect for" to highlight the positive regard or value placed on a particular principle, person, or practice. For example, "The company culture fosters a respect for work-life balance."

Common error

While "a respect for" is versatile, avoid overuse in highly formal writing. Substitute with stronger verbs or more precise nouns to enhance impact and clarity. Instead of "The report shows a respect for data", consider "The report meticulously analyzes data."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a respect for" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It indicates a feeling of admiration, regard, or consideration towards someone or something. Ludwig highlights examples across various contexts demonstrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a respect for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that conveys admiration, consideration, or positive regard. According to Ludwig, the phrase is versatile, fitting seamlessly into news articles, academic papers, and everyday conversations. While generally neutral in tone, its impact can be enhanced in formal contexts by using more specific and powerful synonyms. The high frequency across authoritative sources underscores its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appreciation for

Emphasizes valuing and understanding the qualities of something, shifting the focus from simple respect to a deeper level of acknowledgment.

a regard for

Implies a thoughtful consideration and esteem, suggesting a more mindful and deliberate form of respect.

an admiration for

Highlights the positive feelings and high opinion one has for someone or something, focusing on the aspirational aspect of respect.

a deference to

Suggests yielding to the judgment or authority of another, indicating a more submissive form of respect.

a consideration for

Focuses on being mindful and attentive to the needs or feelings of others, framing respect as an act of thoughtfulness.

a reverence for

Conveys a sense of deep awe and veneration, often used in spiritual or highly esteemed contexts.

an esteem for

Highlights the high regard and favorable opinion held for someone or something, emphasizing its value.

an honor for

Focuses on bestowing recognition and high public regard, shifting from internal feeling to external demonstration.

a veneration of

Suggests the deepest form of respect, bordering on worshipful admiration, typically used for sacred or highly significant subjects.

an acknowledgment of

Emphasizes the recognition and acceptance of something's importance or validity, framing respect as an act of recognition.

FAQs

How can I use "a respect for" in a sentence?

You can use "a respect for" to express admiration or consideration for something. For example, "The students showed "a respect for" the speaker's experience."

What are some alternatives to "a respect for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an appreciation for", "a regard for", or "an admiration for" to convey a similar meaning. For example, instead of "a respect for tradition", you could say "an appreciation for tradition".

Is "a respect for" formal or informal?

"A respect for" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider more precise alternatives for greater impact.

What's the difference between "a respect for" and "a deference to"?

"A respect for" implies admiration or consideration, while "a deference to" suggests yielding to someone's judgment or authority. The latter is a more submissive form of respect.