Definition

Noun (plural) 1. Polite expressions of consideration, deference, or esteem, often offered formally: The word "respects" refers to courteous gestures or statements that show regard, honor, or polite attention towards someone, especially in a formal context. It commonly implies an act of paying a courteous visit or offering condolences.

Usage

"Respects" is almost always used in its plural form. It is frequently paired with the verb "pay" in the phrase "to pay one's respects." This phrase means to visit or speak to someone as a sign of courtesy, respect, or sympathy.

Examples

• Noun:
  • He went to the funeral to pay his respects to the family. (He visited to offer his condolences.)
  • The ambassador paid his respects at the royal palace. (The ambassador made a formal courtesy visit.)
  • Please send my respects to your parents. (Please convey my polite regards to your parents.)

Advanced Usage

• "to pay one's last respects": This is a specific idiom meaning to show respect for someone who has died, typically by attending their funeral or visitation.
  • Hundreds of people gathered to pay their last respects to the community leader.

Variants and Related Words

• Respect (noun): A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. (e.g., )
• Respect (verb): To admire someone or something deeply, as a result of their abilities, qualities, or achievements. (e.g., )
• Respectful (adjective): Feeling or showing deference and respect. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Regards: Used to send good wishes, often in letters. (e.g., )
• Homage: Special honor or respect shown publicly. (More formal and grand than "respects.")
• Condolences: An expression of sympathy, especially on the occasion of a death. (A specific type of respect paid in sorrowful contexts.)

Related Phrases

• Pay one's respects: To make a polite visit or gesture of esteem.
  • As a new neighbor, I should pay my respects to the people living next door.
• With all due respect: A polite phrase used before disagreeing with someone.
  • With all due respect, I must disagree with your conclusion. (Note: This phrase uses the singular "respect," not the plural "respects.")

Noun

1. (often used with `pay') a formal expression of esteem
   • he paid his respects to the mayor