adj
Uncommon
respectful
rih-SPEHKT-fl
Respectful (adj) means showing consideration, courtesy, and regard for someone or something. Example: “The students were respectful toward their teacher.”
adj
1
Showing consideration, courtesy, and regard for someone or something.
"The students were respectful toward their teacher."
"He gave a respectful nod to the elders in the room."
"Visitors are asked to stay quiet and respectful inside the old church."
How to use respectful
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTreating someone or something with courtesy and consideration.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with respective, which means "separate" or "individual" — a completely different word despite the similar spelling.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
respectful of
respectful silence
polite and respectful
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more respectful
- Superlative
- most respectful
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The students were _____ toward their teacher.
Etymology
From respect plus -ful, "full of respect."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for respectful
See all rhymes for respectful →Frequently asked questions
What does “respectful” mean?
The word “respectful” means showing consideration, courtesy, and regard for someone or something. In plain terms, treating someone or something with courtesy and consideration.
How do you pronounce “respectful”?
“Respectful” is pronounced rih-SPEHKT-fl (/ɹɪˈspɛkt.fl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “respectful” in a sentence?
Here is “respectful” used in a sentence: “The students were respectful toward their teacher.”
What is the opposite of “respectful”?
The opposite of “respectful” — its antonyms — are contemptuous, disdainful and disrespectful.
What part of speech is “respectful”?
“Respectful” is an adjective.
Is “respectful” a common word?
“Respectful” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "respectful" and "respectable"?
"Respectful" describes someone showing consideration, courtesy, and regard for someone or something, focusing on behavior toward others. "Respectable" instead describes being regarded well by others or being decent in quality, which relates more to reputation or standard than to active behavior.
Is "respectful" used in formal or professional contexts?
Yes, "respectful" is commonly used in formal and professional contexts to describe appropriate, courteous conduct, such as maintaining a respectful workplace or a respectful disagreement. It applies equally well in everyday, informal speech.
