Word
disrespect
Phoneticsdis·re·spect, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌdɪsɹɪˈspɛkt/
UK/dˌɪsɹɪspˈɛkt/
Definitions
01lack of respect
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun
n. a lack of respect or polite behavior toward someone or something.
n. a lack of respect, esteem, or courteous behavior. Often used with the preposition 'to' or 'towards'.
“The student showed total disrespect by talking while the teacher was explaining the lesson.”
“The diplomat's refusal to follow local customs was viewed as a sign of profound disrespect toward the host nation's traditions.”
Usage
Usually uncountable, but can be used with 'a' in specific instances like 'a disrespect for the law'.
Antonyms
02to treat rudely
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. to treat someone or something without respect, often by being rude or ignoring them.
v. to demonstrate a lack of respect or courtesy toward a person or institution. Transitive — requires a direct object.
“You shouldn't disrespect your parents just because you disagree with their advice.”
“The younger generation was accused of disrespecting the established protocols of the industry during the heated board meeting.”
Real-World Examples
“Unanswered emails can make people feel ignored or disrespected, or jump to worrying or envisioning worst-case scenarios, such as being on the brink of getting laid off or fired.” “He added that they treated the Royal Family with "great disrespect".” Etymology
From dis- + respect.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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