Definition

Noun: 1. The quality or state of showing polite regard and consideration for others; courteous regard for people's feelings. It is the characteristic of being respectful, demonstrating esteem and deference in one's behavior and speech.

Usage

Respectfulness is an abstract noun describing a personal quality or a manner of behavior. It is used to commend or describe someone's consistent polite and considerate conduct. * A manager's respectfulness toward all employees fosters a positive work environment. * The student answered the teacher's question with great respectfulness.

Examples

• Her inherent was evident in how she listened attentively to everyone, regardless of their position.
• The diplomat handled the sensitive negotiations with tact and .
• We should treat historical artifacts with the utmost .

Advanced Usage

• "In deference to" / "Out of respect for": These prepositional phrases are closely related in meaning to acting with . They explain the motive behind a respectful action.
  • In deference to your wishes, we have postponed the meeting. (This action shows respectfulness toward your wishes.)
  • The journalists left out of respect for the family's privacy. (Their departure was an act of respectfulness.)

Variants and Related Words

• Respectful (adjective): Having or showing respect.
  • He was always respectful to his elders.
• Respect (noun & verb): (n) A feeling of deep admiration or polite regard. (v) To admire deeply or show polite regard.
  • She earned the respect of her peers. (Noun)
  • We must respect different cultural traditions. (Verb)
• Deference (noun): Humble submission and respect.
  • He accepted the decision with deference to the committee's authority.

Synonyms

• Courtesy
• Politeness
• Civility
• Deference
• Considerateness

Antonyms

• Disrespectfulness
• Rudeness
• Discourtesy
• Impoliteness

Noun

1. courteous regard for people's feelings
   • in deference to your wishes
   • out of respect for his privacy