Respectfully: meaning, definitions and examples

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respectfully

 

[rɪˈspɛktfəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

used to show polite or formal behavior

In a respectful manner; with respect.

Synonyms

courteously, humbly, politely.

Examples of usage

  • He spoke respectfully to his elders.
  • She addressed the judge respectfully.
  • I would like to respectfully disagree with your opinion.
Context #2 | Adjective

showing admiration or deference

Feeling or showing admiration or deference; respectful.

Synonyms

considerate, honorable, regardful.

Examples of usage

  • She gave a respectful nod to the teacher.
  • He always treated his colleagues with respectful behavior.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • This word comes from the Latin 'respectus', which means looking back or regard.
  • It entered the English language around the late 1600s, evolving from the meaning of showing regard or consideration.
  • The addition of '-fully' emphasizes the manner of showing respect.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, showing respect is fundamental to social interactions, often guiding greetings and conversations.
  • Respect can be expressed differently across cultures, from bowing in Japan to saying 'sir' and 'ma'am' in the U.S.
  • It plays a crucial role in conflict resolution and diplomacy, fostering peaceful communication.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that feeling respected can improve individuals' self-esteem and motivation.
  • Being treated with respect is linked to better mental health outcomes, reducing anxiety and stress.
  • Practicing respect in communications enhances relational satisfaction and trust among individuals.

Education

  • Teaching respect is essential in classrooms, encouraging a positive environment for learning.
  • Respectful behavior among students helps create inclusive communities, benefiting everyone’s learning experience.
  • Educational programs often focus on empathy and respect as foundational elements of social skills development.

Literature

  • Throughout literature, characters who display respect often reflect moral integrity and leadership.
  • Respectful dialogue in literature can indicate character development and the establishment of relationships.
  • Famous writers from Shakespeare to modern novelists use respectful language to convey themes of honor and dignity.

Translations

Translations of the word "respectfully" in other languages:

🇵🇹 respeitosamente

🇮🇳 सम्मानपूर्वक

🇩🇪 respektvoll

🇮🇩 dengan hormat

🇺🇦 з повагою

🇵🇱 z szacunkiem

🇯🇵 敬意を持って (けいいをもって)

🇫🇷 respectueusement

🇪🇸 respetuosamente

🇹🇷 saygıyla

🇰🇷 존경심을 가지고 (jongyeongsim-eul gajigo)

🇸🇦 باحترام (bi'ihtiram)

🇨🇿 s úctou

🇸🇰 s úctou

🇨🇳 尊敬地 (zūnjìng de)

🇸🇮 spoštljivo

🇮🇸 með virðingu

🇰🇿 құрметпен (qurmetpen)

🇬🇪 პატივისცემით (pat'ivistsemit)

🇦🇿 hörmətlə

🇲🇽 respetuosamente

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,865 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.