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 has moderated his early calls for "radical change" and told AFP he wants a "respectful" relationship with US President Donald Trump.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

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

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

Responses were respectful but hoped she was kidding.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

“And we’re allowed to live in that. And our fans have been so respectful of that,” she said.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

“Maybe you should tell your English teacher that he should be more respectful of time,” he says.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam

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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