a touch of respect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a touch of respect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to convey a small amount or degree of respect in various contexts, often to suggest that respect is being shown in a subtle or understated way. Example: "Even in disagreement, it's important to maintain a touch of respect for differing opinions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

They may still be the Rodney Dangerfields of finance, but the battered bond insurers MBIA and Ambac Financial Group got a touch of respect and even some admiration in the stock market on Monday.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The second cut just keeps him out of the drink though, the grass here giving a Green Jacket the touch of respect he deserves.

The Guardian - Sport

"The challenge will be to do it with the right touch of respect and invention," the firm said.

The New York Times

I tried to capture this dignified grace with respect and a touch of humor".

The New Yorker

For most of the officers and men, the commanding general was a cold figure who compelled respect — and a touch of fear.

The New Yorker

Among his vanquished opponents, this streak has inspired not only the usual mix of resentment and respect, but a touch of supernatural awe.

The New York Times

It's a far cry from the glory days when the sight of the men in green inspired respect and perhaps a touch of jealousy in opponents.

The Guardian - Sport

REPUBLICAN moderates in the House had long had a touch of the Rodney Dangerfield problem: they did not get much respect.

The New York Times

We preached (badly needed) mutual respect and civility, and tried to do it with a touch of humor.

Huffington Post

Mrs. Ramsey said that he had a touch of the flu, and wanted her to stand in for him, and pay his respects should Robert Frost appear.

The New Yorker

"A touch of a roadhouse.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a touch of respect" to subtly indicate admiration or consideration without being overly effusive. It's effective in contexts where understated politeness is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "a touch of respect" too frequently, as it can become repetitive and diminish its impact. Vary your language to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a touch of respect" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as an object or complement within a sentence. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it describes a subtle but noticeable degree of consideration or admiration.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a touch of respect" is a valid and usable phrase in English to indicate a subtle degree of consideration or admiration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While it's not overly common, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, making it suitable for news, media, and some formal business contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of overusing it and consider alternative phrases like "a hint of regard" or "a degree of deference" to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint of regard

Replaces "respect" with "regard" and "touch" with "hint", softening the expression slightly.

a degree of deference

Substitutes "respect" with "deference", implying submission or courteous regard, and "touch" with "degree", making it more formal.

a modicum of esteem

Replaces "respect" with "esteem", suggesting high regard, and "touch" with "modicum", indicating a small amount in a formal context.

a shade of reverence

Uses "reverence" instead of "respect", implying deep respect or awe, and "shade" instead of "touch", making it more subtle.

a whisper of admiration

Replaces "respect" with "admiration", focusing on approval and appreciation, and "touch" with "whisper", emphasizing subtlety.

a dash of civility

Substitutes "respect" with "civility", focusing on politeness, and "touch" with "dash", suggesting a small amount.

a glimmer of recognition

Replaces "respect" with "recognition", implying acknowledgment, and "touch" with "glimmer", emphasizing a faint sign.

an element of courtesy

Uses "courtesy" instead of "respect", focusing on polite behavior, and "element" instead of "touch", suggesting an essential component.

a semblance of consideration

Replaces "respect" with "consideration", highlighting thoughtfulness, and "touch" with "semblance", suggesting an outward appearance.

a grain of appreciation

Substitutes "respect" with "appreciation", emphasizing gratitude, and "touch" with "grain", indicating a tiny amount.

FAQs

How can I use "a touch of respect" in a sentence?

You can use "a touch of respect" to describe actions or attitudes that show a small degree of consideration or admiration. For example, "Even in disagreement, it's important to maintain "a touch of respect" for differing opinions."

What are some alternatives to "a touch of respect"?

Some alternatives to "a touch of respect" include "a hint of regard", "a degree of deference", or "a modicum of esteem", depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a touch of respect" formal or informal?

"A touch of respect" falls somewhere in the middle, leaning slightly toward the formal side. It is suitable for professional and news contexts, and even some academic uses, yet it might sound a bit affected in casual conversation.

When is it appropriate to use "a touch of respect"?

It is appropriate to use "a touch of respect" when you want to acknowledge someone's effort, position, or opinion without being overly flattering or obsequious. It's useful in situations requiring professional courtesy or restrained admiration.