In 15 Seconds
- A heavy-duty expression for sincere, high-level admiration.
- Used for mentors, heroes, or friends who overcome big challenges.
- Best reserved for serious, emotional, or professional moments.
Meaning
This phrase describes a profound sense of admiration or esteem you feel for someone's character, achievements, or life story. It is the kind of respect that goes beyond being polite; it is a heartfelt recognition of someone's value.
Key Examples
3 of 6Writing a card to a retiring teacher
Tenho um profundo respeito por tudo o que você ensinou.
I have a deep respect for everything you taught.
In a business meeting acknowledging a rival's success
Temos um profundo respeito pela trajetória da sua empresa.
We have deep respect for your company's trajectory.
Talking to a friend about their hardworking parents
Eu sinto um profundo respeito pelos seus pais.
I feel a deep respect for your parents.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'respeito' is often shown through warmth and personal connection.
Use it with 'ter'
Always use 'ter' or 'sentir' with this phrase.
In 15 Seconds
- A heavy-duty expression for sincere, high-level admiration.
- Used for mentors, heroes, or friends who overcome big challenges.
- Best reserved for serious, emotional, or professional moments.
What It Means
Profundo respeito is all about weight and sincerity. It is not just about being nice to your boss. It describes a soul-level admiration for someone. Think of it as the difference between a polite nod and a standing ovation. You use it when someone’s actions truly move you. It suggests that your opinion of them is rooted in something solid.
How To Use It
You usually pair this with the verb ter (to have). You would say Tenho um profundo respeito por você. It acts like a heavy adjective for your feelings. You can also use it to describe an atmosphere. For example, a moment of silence happens in profundo respeito. It is a versatile tool for showing you are serious. Use it when small talk just won't cut it.
When To Use It
Use it during heartfelt toasts at a wedding. It is perfect for professional letters of recommendation. Use it when a friend overcomes a massive life hurdle. It works beautifully in eulogies or tributes. If you are texting a mentor to thank them, this is your go-to phrase. It shows you aren't just being trendy; you are being real.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for trivial things. Don't say you have profundo respeito for a good sandwich. It will sound sarcastic or just very weird. Avoid it in very casual, fast-paced banter with teenagers. It is too heavy for a quick 'thanks' to a barista. If the situation is light and bubbly, keep this phrase in your pocket. Using it too often makes it lose its magic.
Cultural Background
Portuguese culture places a high value on 'respeito'. It is a cornerstone of social hierarchy and family life. Historically, respect was demanded by age or title. Today, profundo respeito is more about earned merit. It reflects the Portuguese tendency to be emotionally expressive yet dignified. It’s a way of acknowledging someone's 'honor', a big concept in Lusophone societies.
Common Variations
You might hear enorme respeito for something slightly more modern. Respeito imenso is another common way to scale it up. If you want to sound very traditional, try admiração profunda. Sometimes people just say todo o meu respeito to give it all away. Each variation keeps that same core of sincere, heavy admiration.
Usage Notes
This is a high-register collocation. While perfectly understood by everyone, it is most at home in writing or prepared speeches rather than casual street slang.
Use it with 'ter'
Always use 'ter' or 'sentir' with this phrase.
Examples
6Tenho um profundo respeito por tudo o que você ensinou.
I have a deep respect for everything you taught.
Perfect for showing a lifetime of gratitude.
Temos um profundo respeito pela trajetória da sua empresa.
We have deep respect for your company's trajectory.
Shows professional class and maturity.
Eu sinto um profundo respeito pelos seus pais.
I feel a deep respect for your parents.
A very high compliment in Portuguese culture.
Gostaria de expressar meu profundo respeito aos voluntários.
I would like to express my deep respect to the volunteers.
Standard for formal public acknowledgments.
Cara, que determinação! Profundo respeito por você!
Man, what determination! Deep respect for you!
A slightly more modern, punchy way to use it.
O silêncio na sala era de um profundo respeito.
The silence in the room was one of deep respect.
Describes the atmosphere of the room.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct preposition.
Eu tenho um profundo respeito ____ você.
The correct preposition for 'respeito' is 'por'.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesEu tenho um profundo respeito ____ você.
The correct preposition for 'respeito' is 'por'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsOnly if the topic is very serious.
Related Phrases
respeito mútuo
similarmutual respect