respectable person

USAGE SUMMARY

"respectable person" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is held in high esteem or is trustworthy and honest. For example: "My grandfather was a highly respected and respectable person in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

He said, "I am a respectable person".

The New Yorker

Every respectable person claims to support human rights.

The Guardian - Opinion

He was a respectable person who earned his way there.

The Guardian - Opinion

"My brother was quiet, he was kind, he was a respectable person.

Independent

I need to be a respectable person, someone who can take his family on holiday.

The Guardian - Music

John Roberts, at least, personifies a respectable person, much like Mitt Romney looks the part of a president.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

On the crowded train itself, then, he discovered that he'd gone in three weeks from being a colorful and comely — albeit freakishly comely — person to being one of those loathsome urban specimens that respectable persons on T trains slide and drift quietly away from without even seeming to notice them.

The New Yorker

My family were keen readers of it, though in the 1950s it led a half-secret existence as a too-frank and too-political account of rural living – sex and socialism – that needed to be kept from the eyes of children and other respectable persons.

The Guardian - Opinion

The episode was unusual because the man was a respectable, educated person and it is deeply shameful in Afghan culture to take something like that, the shopkeeper said.

The New York Times

There's a difference between a respectable black person and a piece of shit nigger.

Vice

Literary Intelligence: A sign on the door of the reading room of the public library in Ogunquit, Maine, says, "Any person of respectable character and….

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "respectable person", consider the specific qualities you want to emphasize. Is it their moral character, their social standing, or their adherence to rules?

Common error

While "respectable person" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced terms like "person of integrity" or "esteemed individual" to enhance clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "respectable person" functions as a noun phrase, where "respectable" is an adjective modifying the noun "person". Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "respectable person" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase to describe someone of good character and standing. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is well-established in various contexts, particularly in news media and general discourse. While alternatives like "honorable individual" or "upstanding citizen" may offer slightly different connotations, the core meaning remains consistent. When using the phrase, consider the specific qualities you wish to emphasize and avoid overuse in highly formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Person of integrity

Stresses honesty and strong moral principles as core characteristics.

Honorable individual

Suggests a person of high moral character and integrity, often with a formal connotation.

Person of good repute

Emphasizes a positive public image and lack of scandal or wrongdoing.

Upstanding citizen

Emphasizes adherence to societal norms and laws, implying a positive contribution to the community.

Worthy individual

Implies deservingness of respect and recognition, often based on achievements or qualities.

Reputable figure

Highlights a person's good standing and credibility within a particular field or community.

Esteemed character

Highlights the high regard in which the person is held by others, often used in formal contexts.

Decent human being

Focuses on basic moral qualities and kindness, with a slightly less formal tone.

Admirable person

Suggests that the person possesses qualities that inspire admiration and respect.

Law-abiding citizen

Focuses specifically on adherence to laws and regulations.

FAQs

How can I use "respectable person" in a sentence?

You can use "respectable person" to describe someone who is honest, trustworthy, and held in high esteem. For example, "My neighbor is a "respectable person" who always helps others in the community".

What are some alternatives to "respectable person"?

Alternatives include "honorable individual", "upstanding citizen", or "reputable figure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "highly respected and respectable person"?

While not strictly incorrect, using both "highly respected" and "respectable" can be redundant. Consider using just one or choosing a more descriptive adjective to highlight the person's qualities.

What qualities typically define a "respectable person"?

A "respectable person" is typically characterized by qualities such as honesty, integrity, fairness, and a commitment to ethical behavior. They often have a good reputation and are well-regarded by their community.