Spanish word

respetar

Pronunciation

IPA/respeˈtaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbrespect

Example

Hay que respetar las opiniones de los demás.

One must respect the opinions of others.

Illustration for respetar (respect)

More examples

Es importante respetar a los demás aunque no estemos de acuerdo.

It is important to respect others even if we do not agree.

Core concept

Consideration for another person's opinions, feelings, and rights.

Common phrases

  • respetar a los demás

    respect others

  • respetar las reglas

    obey the rules

  • respetar la privacidad

    respect privacy

Similar words

valorar: Recognizes and esteems someone or something for its worth or valuable qualities.
tolerar: Endures unpleasant behavior or differences and allows them without interfering.
aceptar: Accepts and acknowledges a proposal, opinion, or situation as suitable.
apreciar: Feels grateful for and values someone or something for its good qualities.

Definition in Spanish

Mostrar consideración hacia las opiniones, sentimientos y derechos de otra persona, sin necesidad de estar de acuerdo.

Word origin

From Latin respectāre (re- 'back' + spectāre 'to look'), originally 'to look back' and later extended to 'regard' or 'take into account'.

Usage tips

  • When used with rules or social order, respetar often means obey or observe (respetar las normas, respetar los turnos), so English 'respect' can imply compliance rather than admiration.

Other meanings

  • esteemverb
  • obeyverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word