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Disrespectful: meaning, definitions and examples

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disrespectful

 

[ˌdɪs.rɪˈspɛkt.fəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior towards someone

Showing a lack of respect or courtesy towards someone; rude or impolite behavior.

Synonyms

discourteous, impolite, insolent, rude.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disrespectful

When someone shows a lack of respect or consideration for others, be it through words or actions. Often used in professional or formal settings.

  • His comments during the meeting were highly disrespectful to our colleagues
rude

A broad term for when someone is mean or disrespectful, often in a blunt or harsh manner. Commonly used in both casual and formal settings.

  • Interrupting someone while they are talking is very rude
impolite

Describes general rudeness or lack of manners in simple situations. Often used in everyday conversation.

  • Chewing with your mouth open is impolite
discourteous

Used when someone fails to show polite behavior, typically in everyday social interactions. This term is more formal than 'rude'.

  • Not replying to invitations is considered discourteous
insolent

Describes rude and disrespectful behavior that is bold and shameless. Often implies a sense of arrogance. This word has a negative connotation.

  • The student was sent to the principal's office for his insolent remarks to the teacher

Examples of usage

  • His disrespectful attitude towards his teacher got him in trouble.
  • She was shocked by the disrespectful way he spoke to her.
Context #2 | Adjective

towards a rule or authority

Not showing proper respect for a rule, authority, or tradition; disobedient or defiant.

Synonyms

defiant, disobedient, insubordinate, rebellious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disrespectful

Used to describe someone who shows a lack of respect towards others. This term can apply in various contexts, such as personal interactions, workplace behavior, or public settings.

  • He was disrespectful to his teacher by talking back during the lesson
  • The teenager's disrespectful attitude towards her parents was concerning
disobedient

Applied to someone who does not follow rules, commands, or instructions. It is often used to describe children or subordinates who fail to comply with expected behavior.

  • The dog was disobedient, not coming back when called
  • His disobedient actions led to a strict punishment from his parents
defiant

Best used when someone openly resists or challenges authority. This word is appropriate in situations where there is a clear act of resistance, especially against rules or commands.

  • The young boy was defiant, refusing to follow his mother's instructions
  • Her defiant behavior caused tension during the meeting
insubordinate

Typically used in a professional or formal setting to describe someone who defies authority or refuses to follow orders. This word often carries a more serious connotation than 'disobedient'.

  • The employee was fired for being insubordinate to his manager
  • Her insubordinate attitude was unacceptable in the disciplined environment of the military
rebellious

Used for individuals or groups who show a desire to resist control or convention, often in a more dramatic or widespread sense. This word can describe both personal attitudes and broader social movements.

  • During her teenage years, she had a rebellious phase, questioning every rule
  • The group's rebellious actions sparked a larger social movement

Examples of usage

  • His disrespectful behavior towards the school rules led to suspension.
  • The employee was fired for being disrespectful towards company policies.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the prefix 'dis-', which means 'not,' and 'respect,' which means to admire or appreciate.
  • It first appeared in English during the late 19th century, gaining popularity as social norms changed.
  • Related words include 'disrespect,' a noun form, and 'respectful,' its opposite, used to convey kindness.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have strong views on respect, and being disrespectful can lead to social ostracism or conflict.
  • Certain gestures considered disrespectful vary widely across cultures; for example, pointing can be rude in some places but common in others.
  • In communication, disrespect often manifests in tone of voice, body language or abrupt interruptions.

Psychology

  • Being disrespectful can lead to conflicts and can often stem from feelings of insecurity or a need for control.
  • Research shows that consistent disrespect can harm relationships and decrease feelings of belonging over time.
  • Addressing disrespectful behavior in children can help foster empathy and understanding in their future interactions.

Literature

  • Disrespect is a common theme in many classic novels, often leading to the protagonist facing moral dilemmas.
  • Contemporary authors frequently explore the implications of disrespect in social media interactions and digital communication.
  • Shakespeare's plays often highlight the tension between characters through acts of disrespect, affecting their relationships and outcomes.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows like 'The Office' have humorously portrayed disrespectful behavior to highlight workplace dynamics.
  • Social media campaigns often promote respect and call out disrespectful acts, raising awareness about bullying and harassment.
  • Famous public figures have faced backlash for being disrespectful in interviews or public appearances, affecting their careers.

Translations

Translations of the word "disrespectful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desrespeitoso

🇮🇳 असम्मानजनक

🇩🇪 respektlos

🇮🇩 tidak hormat

🇺🇦 неповажний

🇵🇱 lekceważący

🇯🇵 無礼な (ぶれいな)

🇫🇷 irrespectueux

🇪🇸 irrespetuoso

🇹🇷 saygısız

🇰🇷 무례한 (muryehan)

🇸🇦 غير محترم

🇨🇿 neuctivý

🇸🇰 neúctivý

🇨🇳 不尊敬的 (bù zūnjìng de)

🇸🇮 nespoštljiv

🇮🇸 virðingarlaus

🇰🇿 құрметсіз

🇬🇪 არასამარხო

🇦🇿 hörmətsiz

🇲🇽 irrespetuoso

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,411, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.