respectful

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "respectful" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone, their behavior, or an attitude. For example, "The academy was filled with respectful students who were eager to learn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ray (2004) The late Ray Charles is conjured up in all his playful, lustful, anguished glory in this otherwise stolid, respectful biopic of the legendary musician.

The Guardian - Film

If the celebration was respectful, the onslaught that followed – after being dropped the very next ball – was anything but.

The Guardian - Sport

Most of the evidence for respectful two-spirit traditions is focused on the native peoples of the Plains, the Great Lakes, the Southwest, and California.

The Guardian - Music

I lacked the tools I needed to communicate and behave in loving, respectful ways; to do poly right.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When, last summer, she was appointed to RAI by Mario Monti, the technocratic former prime minister who succeeded Berlusconi, she set about trying to make the broadcaster more respectful to women.

The Guardian

That's possible - those types of viewers typically claim to dislike excess confrontation in politics, and what made Romney effective was that his aggression was restrained and respectful - but ultimately, Americans, their claims to the contrary notwithstanding, respond viscerally to alpha dominance in their political leaders.

The Guardian

In time put aside after the first prime minister's question time of the new parliament on Wednesday, politicians from both sides of the chamber praised Kennedy for his sense of humour, good judgment in opposing the war in Iraq and the respectful way that he treated his opponents.

The Guardian

You might give a message of respectful affection to Rupert – is that permitted?" The 34 letters, revealed for the first time from among Lytton Strachey's archive, will be auctioned at Bonhams in June, valued at up to £60,000.

The Guardian

From being a rather remote figure whom we younger Observerites felt in respectful awe of, Jane became part of the gang (or we became part of hers).

The Guardian - Arts

You can imagine as a nine-year-old if the senior players are talking to you about that, saying be respectful of women … there's their view being changed right there".

The Guardian

"I would hear about Edward, as he was called then, in very positive and respectful and tender terms.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions, consider using "respectful" to highlight the mutual regard and consideration shown between individuals or groups.

Common error

Avoid using "respectful" in contexts that require more nuanced terms like "deferential" or "reverent", which denote higher degrees of admiration or submission.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "respectful" primarily functions to describe an action, manner, or person characterized by or showing respect. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and applicability in diverse contexts. Examples show it modifying nouns like 'biopic', 'celebration', and 'traditions'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

24%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "respectful" is a versatile adjective used to describe actions, attitudes, or individuals that demonstrate consideration and regard for others. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It is very common across various contexts, particularly in news, formal communication, and scientific discussions, signaling its importance in conveying appropriate and considerate behavior. Its usage enhances communication by highlighting positive interactions and acknowledgment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

showing respect

Focuses on the action of demonstrating respect, rather than the inherent quality.

deferential

Implies a yielding or submitting to the judgment of someone else.

considerate

Emphasizes thoughtfulness and awareness of others' feelings and needs.

courteous

Highlights politeness and good manners in social interactions.

reverent

Suggests deep respect and awe, often in a religious or spiritual context.

polite

A general term indicating adherence to social norms of etiquette.

well-mannered

Refers to good behavior and etiquette, particularly in social settings.

honorable

Emphasizes integrity and ethical conduct deserving of respect.

admiring

Expresses a feeling of approval and high regard.

estimable

Describes someone or something worthy of respect and admiration.

FAQs

How can I use the word "respectful" in a sentence?

You can use "respectful" to describe behavior, attitudes, or interactions that show regard for others. For example, "The students were "respectful" of their teacher's experience".

What are some synonyms for "respectful"?

Alternatives to "respectful" include "considerate", "courteous", and "deferential", each carrying slightly different nuances.

How does "respectful" differ from "respectable"?

"Respectful" describes showing regard for someone or something, while "respectable" describes someone or something worthy of respect or of good standing.

Is it always appropriate to be "respectful"?

While showing respect is generally positive, the degree of respect may vary depending on the context. Sometimes, being too "deferential" can be seen as insincere or overly submissive.