English Reference

Word

respects

Phoneticsre·spects

US/ɹəˈspɛks/

UK/ɹɪspˈɛkts/

Definitions

01specific details

B2

n. particular details, features, or ways of looking at something.

n. specific aspects, details, or particulars of a situation or object.

“The two plans are very similar in many respects.”

“While the two proposals differ in several key respects, they both aim to reduce the company's carbon footprint by the end of the decade.”

Usage

Commonly used in the phrase 'in many respects' or 'in some respects'.

02polite greetings or condolences

B2

n. polite greetings or a formal way to show honor to someone, especially after they have died.

n. formal expressions of esteem or polite regard; specifically used for paying tribute to a deceased person.

“Many people went to the funeral to pay their last respects.”

“Dignitaries from across the country gathered at the cathedral to pay their respects to the late prime minister.”

Formal

Usage

Almost always used with the verb 'pay'.

Real-World Examples

“People gather at Palace Square in Oslo to pay their respects to King Harald.”
The Guardian · 28 Aug 2026
“Others have also paid their respects to the late king.”
BBC News · 28 Aug 2026
“Only those with invitations will be allowed inside, but the service will be shown on a large screen in nearby St David’s Square – and members of the public can pay their respects.”
The Guardian · 15 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

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