Respectable: meaning, definitions and examples

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respectable

[rɪˈspɛktəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in society

Regarded by society as being good, proper, or correct; having qualities of honor, decency, and integrity.

Synonyms

dignified, honorable, reputable, upstanding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
respectable	Appropriate to use when referring to someone or something that meets generally accepted standards of behavior or quality. He comes from a respectable family She has a respectable job in the company
honorable	Used when referring to someone who possesses and displays integrity and strong moral principles. He made an honorable decision to confess his mistake She is known for her honorable actions in the community
upstanding	Generally applied to a person who is known for their integrity and honesty; often used in describing someone as a model citizen. He is an upstanding member of the community We need upstanding leaders to guide us
reputable	Best suited when talking about someone or something known to have a good reputation, often after being well regarded for a long time. They went to a reputable law firm for advice It’s a reputable school with a long history of excellence
dignified	Best used when describing someone who shows composed and serious manner that deserves respect, often under difficult circumstances. Despite the chaos, she remained dignified His dignified speech moved the audience

Examples of usage

He is a respectable member of the community.
She comes from a respectable family.
The company has a respectable reputation.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in appearance

Having a good appearance or character; fit to be seen or to be associated with.

Synonyms

decent, neat, presentable, tidy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
respectable	Use when referring to someone or something that is highly regarded or has a good reputation. This word often carries a sense of social approval. He is a respectable businessman in the community She comes from a respectable family
presentable	Use when talking about someone or something that looks good enough to be seen in public, especially in a formal or professional context. He made sure to dress presentable for the job interview The house is finally presentable for guests
decent	Use to describe something that meets an acceptable standard or is morally proper. It is often used when discussing behavior or quality. He is a decent guy who always tries to help others She found a decent place to live
tidy	Use to describe something that is clean and well-organized, often in reference to physical spaces or appearance. She always keeps her desk tidy His car is surprisingly tidy considering how much he travels
neat	Use to describe something that is clean, tidy, and well-organized. It can refer to both physical appearance and behavior. Her handwriting is very neat He keeps his room neat and clean

Examples of usage

She wore a respectable dress to the party.
He made a respectable effort in his presentation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'respectabilis,' meaning 'worthy of regard' or 'to look back at.'
It entered the English language in the late 16th century, evolving to describe people deemed honorable.
Over time, it has been used to describe behavior, appearance, and social status.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, being described as 'respectable' often comes with social expectations, including manners and etiquette.
In Victorian society, respectability was closely linked to moral behavior and social standing.
Different societies have varying standards for what is considered respectable behavior based on traditions and values.

Psychology

Achieving a 'respectable' reputation can lead to increased self-esteem and improved interpersonal relationships.
People often adapt their behavior to fit into 'respectable' norms to gain approval and reduce social anxiety.
Experiments show that individuals who project respectability are more likely to receive help and cooperation from others.

Literature

Many classic novels feature characters striving for respectability, reflecting the social mores of their times.
In 'Pride and Prejudice,' the pursuit of respectability drives the narrative, shaping characters' choices and relationships.
The concept of respectability is often critiqued in modern literature, exploring the tensions between personal identity and societal expectations.

Pop Culture

The term 'respectable' is often used in music and film to contrast between mainstream acceptance and subcultural defiance.
TV shows like 'Mad Men' depict the quest for respectability in the context of 1960s corporate culture.
In contemporary hip hop, 'respectable' can sometimes refer to artists who balance commercial success with authentic representation.

Translations

Translations of the word "respectable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 respeitável

🇮🇳 सम्माननीय

🇩🇪 respektabel

🇮🇩 terhormat

🇺🇦 шанований

🇵🇱 szanowany

🇯🇵 尊敬すべき (そんけいすべき)

🇫🇷 respectable

🇪🇸 respetable

🇹🇷 saygıdeğer

🇰🇷 존경할 만한

🇸🇦 محترم

🇨🇿 vážený

🇸🇰 vážený

🇨🇳 值得尊敬的 (zhídé zūnjìng de)

🇸🇮 spoštovan

🇮🇸 virðingarverður

🇰🇿 құрметті

🇬🇪 პატივსაცემი (pativsacemi)

🇦🇿 hörmətli

🇲🇽 respetable

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,253 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
6250 prevalence
6251 statue
6252 sustainable
6253 respectable
6254 nuts
6255 relaxed
6256 traditionally
...