# respectfully

/ɹɪˈspɛktfəɫi/ (US) · /ɹɪspˈɛktfəli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/respectfully
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

to do something in a way that shows you admire someone or care about their feelings. You use this to be polite, especially when you disagree with someone.

For teachers: in a manner that conveys esteem, deference, or consideration for the feelings and rights of others. Frequently used as a sentence modifier to soften a disagreement or formal correction.

## Examples

- He listened respectfully while his grandfather told the story.
- The student respectfully asked the professor to explain the difficult concept one more time.
- While the board members disagreed with the proposal, they listened respectfully to the presentation before explaining their reasons for the rejection.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He spoke respective to the judge" but "He spoke respectfully to the judge" — Learners confuse 'respectfully' (showing respect) with 'respectively' (in the order mentioned).

## Usage notes

- Often placed after the verb it modifies, or at the beginning of a sentence when used to introduce a polite disagreement.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.