be more respectable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be more respectable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to improve their reputation or the way they are perceived by others. Example: "If you want to be taken seriously in this industry, you need to be more respectable in your dealings with clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It would be more respectable.

The New York Times - Sports

If all games were white-knuckle, multi-overtime events, perhaps ratings would be more respectable for prime time.

The New York Times - Sports

Is it different now that you're married in these situations where you feel you have to be more respectable on the court?" Roddick: "You thought I was respectable tonight?" Reporter: "Could have taken it to Johnny Mac levels".

The New Yorker

He plays the screenwriter hoping to be more respectable who gets to meet Scott, Zelda, Hem and Gertrude Stein when a splendid antique car comes by on a back street at midnight?

The Guardian - Film

What could be more respectable than that, you may well ask?

Huffington Post

"We passed this law… to try to teach the kids to be a better person… to be more respectable and have a decent life when they get much older," Commissioner Timothy Holmes, who introduced the original 2007 ban, said on a Japanese TV show covering strange laws.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Game Four was more respectable, with the Bulls winning 86 82.

The New Yorker

"It is more respectable than a pastry chef".

The New York Times

Even in war, the rules are more respectable than this.

Independent

Android software has gotten to the point where it's more respectable.

The New York Times

Those who understand the public finances think it is more respectable than the Queen.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To give guidance to someone consider to be more respectful, remember to be specific about what action(s) the other party could consider to change. Being vague in what is meant by the term could be easily misinterpreted.

Common error

Avoid using "be more respectable" without specifying which actions or behaviors need adjustment. Overgeneralization can lead to confusion and resentment, making it difficult for the intended recipient to understand and improve their conduct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be more respectable" functions as an imperative, typically used to advise or instruct someone to improve their behavior or image to gain the approval or admiration of others. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be more respectable" is a common and correct way to advise someone to improve their behavior or image, suitable for various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English. While versatile, it's important to use it with specificity, providing clear direction on what actions or behaviors need adjustment. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "cultivate a better reputation" or "act with greater decorum". Remember, the goal is to offer constructive guidance that promotes positive change and enhances one's standing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show greater respectability

Highlights the need to display qualities that are generally considered admirable and proper.

become more reputable

Focuses on gaining a strong and positive reputation.

be more honorable

Emphasizes moral principles and integrity in one's actions and decisions.

carry oneself with dignity

Highlights the importance of presenting oneself in a composed and respectful manner.

conduct oneself more honorably

Highlights ethical and moral behavior in one's actions.

cultivate a better reputation

Focuses on the overall reputation rather than specific actions.

behave more responsibly

Stresses the importance of accountable and dependable actions.

act with greater decorum

Emphasizes proper and polite behavior in social situations.

enhance one's image

Focuses on improving the perception others have of you.

improve one's standing

Addresses enhancing one's position or status in a community or organization.

FAQs

How can I use "be more respectable" in a sentence?

You can use "be more respectable" to advise someone to improve their behavior or image to gain the approval or admiration of others. For example, "If you want to be taken seriously, you need to "be more respectable" in your dealings with clients."

What's a more formal alternative to "be more respectable"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "cultivate a better reputation" or "act with greater decorum". These options add a layer of sophistication to your writing.

What does it mean to "be more respectable"?

To ""be more respectable"" typically means to improve one's behavior, ethics, or public image to gain the respect and approval of others. It can involve acting more responsibly, honestly, or professionally.

How does "be more respectable" differ from "be more reputable"?

"Be more respectable" focuses on improving one's character and behavior to earn respect. "Be more reputable", on the other hand, emphasizes building a strong and positive reputation, which often involves trustworthiness and reliability.