respektieren

Definition & meaning

The verb respektieren primarily describes the act of showing respect, esteem, or consideration toward a person, an institution, or a concept. It involves acknowledging the value, rights, or achievements of others.

There are two main nuances to its usage:

1. Interpersonal Respect: To treat someone with dignity and to value their opinions, boundaries, or privacy. For example, one might respect a colleague's expertise or a friend's decision.
2. Compliance and Adherence: To follow or abide by established rules, laws, limits, or conditions. In this sense, it means not violating or ignoring a specific framework, such as respecting a speed limit or a contract.

Grammar & Word origin

The word respektieren is a regular (weak) German verb. Its principal forms are:

• Präsens: ich respektiere, du respektierst, er/sie/es respektiert
• Präteritum: ich respektierte
• Perfekt: hat respektiert

The word is derived from the Latin verb respectare, which is the frequentative form of respicere, meaning "to look back at," "to regard," or "to consider." This suggests a sense of looking at something again or giving it careful attention. It entered the German language in the 17th century, influenced by the French word respecter.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

• achten↗: To esteem or regard someone highly.
• wertschätzen↗: To appreciate or value the worth of something or someone.
• anerkennen↗: To recognize or acknowledge the validity or status of something.
• befolgen↗: To follow or obey (usually in the context of rules or advice).
• berücksichtigen↗: To take something into consideration or account.

Antonyms

• missachten↗: To disregard or show a lack of respect for rules or people.
• verachten↗: To despise or look down upon someone with contempt.
• ignorieren↗: To ignore or pay no attention to something.
• verletzen↗: To violate or breach (e.g., a rule or a boundary).