Definitions

respectful

[ri-spekt-fuhl] / rɪˈspɛkt fəl /

ADJECTIVE

courteous, mannerly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

admiring appreciative civil considerate deferential gracious humble obedient polite reverent reverential self-effacing well-mannered

WEAK

courtly duteous dutiful obeisant recognizing regardful regarding solicitous submissive upholding venerating

Antonyms

STRONGEST

discourteous disobedient disrespectful impolite inconsiderate insolent mean rude unkind unmannerly unrefined

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"He feels that allegiance to the country that he's playing for now and you're always very respectful of that."

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

He told AFP he wants a "respectful" relationship with US President Donald Trump.

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

Peru's leftist presidential contender told AFP Friday that he wants "respectful" relations with US President Donald Trump, extending an olive branch ahead of Sunday's tight runoff election.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Responses were respectful but hoped she was kidding.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

I don’t think that’s anything to brag about, but clearly he does, so I always try to be respectful.

From "A Place at the Table" by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan

Vocabulary lists containing respectful

List 1

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Workshop 4, Part 2

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Positive and Uplifting Tones

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