Respected: Definition and Synonyms
Respected – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “respected” serves primarily as a verb when indicating action (as in being held in high regard) or an adjective describing someone who commands esteem or admiration due to their qualities, achievements, or status. As an adjective, it typically follows the copula verb “is,” as in “he is respected.” The verb form can be used in various tenses (“respecting” for present participle, “respected” for past and past participle).
Core Synonyms
Here’s a table highlighting key synonyms of “respected,” with nuances in meaning, example sentences, and contextual usage:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Esteemed | Indicates high regard often for achievements or status. | “She is an esteemed professor at the university.” | Formal, Academic |
| Revered | Suggests deep admiration, possibly with a spiritual or moral dimension. | “The elderly are revered in many cultures for their wisdom.” | Formal, Cultural |
| Honored | Implies recognition of merit or special qualities; often used in formal acknowledgments. | “He was honored with an award for his charitable work.” | Business/Formal |
| Admired | Focuses on admiration due to admirable traits or accomplishments. | “The admired artist displayed her latest work at the gallery.” | Informal/Academic |
| Regarded | Neutral term suggesting consideration and esteem; versatile in many contexts. | “She is highly regarded by her peers for her expertise.” | Business/Casual |
Usage Notes
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Esteemed: Best used in academic, professional, or formal settings where achievements are highlighted. For example, “The esteemed scientist presented her groundbreaking research.”
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Revered: Suitable for contexts that emphasize deep respect, often with a moral or spiritual undertone. Ideal in cultural discussions or when describing individuals revered for wisdom.
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Honored: Often appears in official communications, awards ceremonies, and formal acknowledgments of achievements. E.g., “We are honored to welcome our distinguished guests.”
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Admired: Used in both casual conversations and creative writing to convey admiration based on personal traits or artistic endeavors. Suitable for more subjective expressions of respect.
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Regarded: Flexible across various contexts, including business settings where respect is grounded in competence or reliability rather than extraordinary accomplishments.
Common Pitfalls
While all these synonyms convey a sense of regard, their specific nuances can lead to misuse if not chosen carefully:
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Avoid using “revered” for professional accolades unless the context involves moral or spiritual dimensions.
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Use “esteemed” when referring to recognized achievements; avoid it in casual conversation.
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Distinguish between “honored” and “respected”: the former often implies an award or special recognition, while the latter is broader and can be more informal.
Final Recap
In summary, each synonym for “respected” carries distinct connotations:
- Esteemed and Revered: Formal, with emphasis on achievements and deep respect.
- Honored: Associated with formal recognition or awards.
- Admired: Highlights personal qualities; suitable for informal to academic contexts.
- Regarded: Neutral, versatile in professional and casual settings.
Understanding these nuances helps enhance both written and verbal communication by choosing the right word to convey the appropriate level of respect. Practice using these synonyms in context to master their subtle differences—try incorporating them into essays, business emails, or even casual conversations!