ENGLISH
REFERENCE

disrespectful

adj.
US //ˌdɪsɹɪˈspɛktfəɫ// UK //dˌɪsɹɪspˈɛktfəl// dis·re·spect·ful
  1. 1 rude or impolite (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing a lack of respect or being rude to someone, especially someone older or in a higher position.

    exhibiting a lack of respect, courtesy, or deference toward a person, institution, or social norm.

    Example

    The student was sent to the office for being disrespectful to the substitute teacher.

    Example

    The manager found the employee's constant interruptions during the presentation to be deeply disrespectful to the rest of the team.

    Pitfall
    He was disrespectful for his teacher.
    He was disrespectful to his teacher.

    Use the preposition 'to' when directing disrespect toward a person or entity.

  2. 2 ignoring or heedless (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    not paying attention to rules, feelings, or the importance of something.

    showing a lack of regard or heed for specific consequences, feelings, or established protocols.

    Example

    He continued to make loud noise, disrespectful of the fact that his neighbors were sleeping.

    Example

    The developer proceeded with the demolition, seemingly disrespectful of the historical significance the building held for the local community.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'of' in this sense.

Origin

From dis- + respectful.

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