respeitável in 30 Seconds
- Respeitável: Deserving respect.
- Used for people, actions, or things that earn admiration.
- Formal adjective, often used in professional or serious contexts.
- Implies integrity, achievement, or significant positive qualities.
- Definition
- Deserving respect; worthy of admiration or esteem.
- Usage
- The word 'respeitável' is used to describe someone or something that has earned respect due to their character, achievements, position, or qualities. It's a formal and polite term, often used in situations where you want to show deference or acknowledge someone's worth. You might hear it when referring to elders, distinguished professionals, important institutions, or even actions that are commendable.
O seu trabalho é verdadeiramente respeitável.
É uma pessoa muito respeitável na comunidade.
A decisão do juiz foi respeitável.
- Nuances
- While 'respeitável' implies deserving respect, it doesn't necessarily mean universally loved or agreed with. It focuses on the grounds for respect, such as integrity, accomplishment, or a significant contribution. It's a more formal adjective than simply 'bom' (good) and carries a weight of admiration.
- Contexts
- This word is common in formal settings, academic discussions, professional evaluations, and when discussing figures of authority or historical importance. It's less likely to be used in casual, everyday conversation unless you are specifically highlighting someone's admirable qualities.
A sua trajetória profissional é respeitável.
- Examples in Use
- A scientist who has made significant contributions to their field can be described as 'respeitável'. An elder in a community, known for their wisdom and experience, is also often called 'respeitável'. A company with a long history of ethical practices and quality products might be considered 'respeitável'.
- Describing People
- When referring to a person, 'respeitável' highlights their integrity, achievements, or societal standing. It suggests they are worthy of admiration and esteem. This is common when speaking about professionals, elders, or individuals who have made a positive impact.
Ele é um professor respeitável em sua área de estudo.
A sua avó é uma senhora muito respeitável.
- Describing Actions or Achievements
- You can use 'respeitável' to describe actions, accomplishments, or contributions that are worthy of respect. This could be a significant donation, a well-executed project, or a morally sound decision.
O seu esforço em ajudar os necessitados é respeitável.
A empresa demonstrou uma ética de trabalho respeitável ao longo dos anos.
- Describing Institutions or Concepts
- 'Respeitável' can also apply to institutions, organizations, or even abstract concepts that command respect due to their standing, history, or principles.
Aquela universidade tem uma reputação respeitável no país.
A sua contribuição para a ciência é respeitável.
- Grammar Note
- Remember that 'respeitável' is an adjective and must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. Masculine singular: respeitável. Feminine singular: respeitável. Masculine plural: respeitáveis. Feminine plural: respeitáveis. Since it ends in 'l', the plural form is made by adding 'is'.
Os pais dela são pessoas respeitáveis.
- Formal Speeches and Ceremonies
- In award ceremonies, graduations, or formal gatherings, you'll frequently hear 'respeitável' used to describe honorees, distinguished guests, or significant achievements. It lends an air of gravitas and admiration to the proceedings.
'É uma honra apresentar este prémio a um cientista tão respeitável.' (It is an honor to present this award to such a respectable scientist.)
- Academic and Professional Settings
- In universities, research institutions, or professional conferences, professors, researchers, and esteemed colleagues are often described as 'respeitável'. It's a way to acknowledge their expertise, contributions, and standing within their field.
'O Dr. Silva é um colega respeitável, com anos de experiência em medicina cardiovascular.' (Dr. Silva is a respectable colleague, with years of experience in cardiovascular medicine.)
- Discussions about Elders and Community Leaders
- In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, elders are highly respected. When speaking about an older person who is wise, has lived a full life, or is a pillar of the community, 'respeitável' is a fitting adjective.
'Na nossa aldeia, o Sr. Manuel é um ancião respeitável por todos.' (In our village, Mr. Manuel is an elder respected by all.)
- Legal and Official Contexts
- In legal documents or official pronouncements, 'respeitável' might be used to describe a judge, a court decision, or an institution that holds a position of authority and deserves deference.
'A decisão do tribunal foi considerada respeitável pela maioria dos advogados.' (The court's decision was considered respectable by most lawyers.)
- Literary and Historical Discussions
- When discussing historical figures, influential writers, or significant artworks, 'respeitável' can be used to convey their importance and the esteem they command from critics and the public.
'A obra deste poeta é respeitável pela sua profundidade e originalidade.' (The work of this poet is respectable for its depth and originality.)
- Confusing with 'Respeitoso' (Respectful)
- A common mistake is confusing 'respeitável' (deserving respect) with 'respeitoso' (showing respect). 'Respeitoso' describes behavior or an attitude of respect towards others, while 'respeitável' describes the quality of being worthy of respect. For example, 'Um comportamento respeitoso' (respectful behavior) is about how someone acts, whereas 'Um indivíduo respeitável' (a respectable individual) is about their character.
Mistake: 'Ele é um homem respeitável porque ele é sempre respeitoso.' (Incorrect usage of 'respeitável' for behavior.)
Correct: 'Ele é um homem respeitável por suas conquistas e é sempre respeitoso com todos.' (Correct distinction: respectable person, respectful behavior.)
- Overuse in Informal Situations
- 'Respeitável' is a formal adjective. Using it in very casual conversations can sound unnatural or overly stiff. For instance, you wouldn't typically call your friend's new haircut 'respeitável'. Stick to using it when acknowledging genuine merit or in more formal contexts.
Mistake: 'Que sanduíche respeitável!' (Sounds odd in a casual context.)
Better: 'Que sanduíche delicioso!' (More natural for casual praise.)
- Incorrect Gender/Number Agreement
- As an adjective, 'respeitável' must agree with the noun it modifies. Forgetting to pluralize it when referring to multiple people or things is a common grammatical error.
Mistake: 'Os artistas apresentaram trabalhos respeitável.' (Singular form used with plural noun.)
Correct: 'Os artistas apresentaram trabalhos respeitáveis.' (Plural form used correctly.)
- Using it for Minor Qualities
- 'Respeitável' implies a significant degree of worthiness of respect. Using it for very minor or superficial positive qualities can dilute its meaning and sound insincere. It's best reserved for qualities that truly merit admiration.
Mistake: 'Ele tem um chapéu respeitável.' (The hat itself is unlikely to be 'deserving of respect' in a meaningful way.)
Better: 'Ele tem um chapéu elegante.' (More appropriate for describing an accessory.)
- Admirable
- Similar to 'respeitável', 'admirável' (admirable) describes someone or something that evokes admiration. It often focuses more on the positive qualities that inspire awe or high regard. While 'respeitável' emphasizes worthiness of respect, 'admirável' emphasizes the feeling of admiration it inspires.
- Example: 'Sua coragem diante da adversidade é admirável.' (His courage in the face of adversity is admirable.) 'Respeitável' could also fit here, but 'admirável' highlights the inspiring nature of his courage.
- Digno de nota (Worthy of note)
- This phrase is a more general way to say that something is significant or deserves attention. It's less about inherent worthiness of respect and more about being noteworthy or important. 'Respeitável' implies a deeper level of esteem.
- Example: 'O projeto teve um resultado digno de nota.' (The project had a noteworthy result.) 'Respeitável' might be too strong here unless the result was exceptionally commendable and earned respect.
- Ilustre (Illustrious)
- 'Ilustre' is a more elevated term, often used for individuals who are famous, distinguished, and highly respected, typically due to significant achievements or a prominent position. It's a stronger and more formal word than 'respeitável', often implying a certain fame or renown.
- Example: 'Recebemos a visita de um diplomata ilustre.' (We received the visit of an illustrious diplomat.) 'Respeitável' would also work but 'ilustre' conveys a higher degree of prestige.
- Considerável (Considerable)
- 'Considerável' means significant or large in amount or degree. It doesn't inherently imply respect, but something that is considerable might also be respectable. It's a more quantitative term.
- Example: 'Ele tem um conhecimento considerável sobre o assunto.' (He has considerable knowledge about the subject.) This knowledge might make him respectable, but 'considerável' itself just means a lot.
- Honroso (Honorable)
- 'Honroso' means bringing honor or deserving honor. It's very close in meaning to 'respeitável' and often used interchangeably when referring to actions or qualities that uphold honor and integrity.
- Example: 'Foi uma tarefa honrosa servir o país.' (It was an honorable task to serve the country.) This also implies respect.
- Distinto (Distinguished)
- 'Distinto' means standing out from others due to excellence, achievement, or rank. It's very similar to 'respeitável' and often implies a recognized superiority or eminence.
- Example: 'Ele é um académico distinto no seu campo.' (He is a distinguished academic in his field.) This person is clearly also respectable.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The concept of 'respect' has evolved significantly. In ancient times, respect might have been tied more to social hierarchy or power. Today, 'respeitável' often implies respect earned through merit, character, or contribution, reflecting a shift towards valuing individual achievements and integrity.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 's' at the end of 'res' as a 'z' sound.
- Not emphasizing the stressed syllable 'ta'.
- Mismatting the 'v' sound with a 'b' sound.
Difficulty Rating
Recognizing 'respeitável' in reading is straightforward once its meaning is understood. Its formal nature might make it appear in more complex texts, but the context usually clarifies its usage.
Using 'respeitável' correctly in writing requires attention to formality and agreement. Learners might need practice to ensure they use it appropriately and not in overly casual contexts.
Pronunciation and correct usage in spoken Portuguese can be a slight challenge due to its formality. Learners should practice using it in appropriate conversational settings.
Understanding 'respeitável' when heard is generally easy, especially in formal contexts. Its clear pronunciation and common association with positive attributes help in comprehension.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement (Gender and Number)
O homem é respeitável. A mulher é respeitável. Os homens são respeitáveis. As mulheres são respeitáveis.
Use of 'Ser' with Adjectives
Ele é um escritor respeitável. A sua obra é respeitável.
Possessive Pronouns with Adjectives
O seu trabalho é respeitável. A sua reputação é respeitável.
Adverbs Modifying Adjectives
Ele é um profissional bastante respeitável. A decisão foi muito respeitável.
Superlatives with Adjectives
Ele é um dos cientistas mais respeitáveis da sua área.
Examples by Level
O senhor é respeitável.
The gentleman is respectable.
Basic sentence structure with 'ser' + adjective.
A professora é respeitável.
The teacher is respectable.
Feminine agreement of the adjective with 'professora'.
É um bom homem.
He is a good man.
Simple adjective 'bom' (good).
Ela é uma boa pessoa.
She is a good person.
Simple adjective 'boa' (good) with feminine noun.
O médico ajuda as pessoas.
The doctor helps people.
Verb 'ajudar' (to help).
A senhora é simpática.
The lady is nice.
Simple adjective 'simpática' (nice).
Ele é um bom amigo.
He is a good friend.
Using 'bom' with 'amigo' (friend).
A casa é grande.
The house is big.
Simple adjective 'grande' (big).
O seu trabalho é respeitável.
His work is respectable.
Possessive pronoun 'seu' (his).
Ela é uma profissional respeitável.
She is a respectable professional.
Using 'respeitável' with 'profissional'.
A decisão dele foi respeitável.
His decision was respectable.
Possessive pronoun 'dele' (his).
É uma instituição respeitável.
It is a respectable institution.
Using 'respeitável' with 'instituição'.
O artista tem uma reputação respeitável.
The artist has a respectable reputation.
Using 'respeitável' with 'reputação'.
Os anciãos da aldeia são respeitáveis.
The village elders are respectable.
Plural form 'respeitáveis' with plural noun 'anciãos'.
Ele fez uma contribuição respeitável.
He made a respectable contribution.
Using 'respeitável' with 'contribuição'.
A empresa é respeitável no mercado.
The company is respectable in the market.
Using 'respeitável' with 'empresa'.
A sua conduta ética é digna de nota e respeitável.
His ethical conduct is noteworthy and respectable.
Using 'respeitável' alongside another descriptor 'digna de nota'.
Ele é considerado um dos cientistas mais respeitáveis da sua geração.
He is considered one of the most respectable scientists of his generation.
Superlative structure 'mais respeitáveis'.
A organização tem um histórico respeitável de apoio a causas sociais.
The organization has a respectable history of supporting social causes.
Using 'respeitável' with 'histórico'.
A sua abordagem à resolução de conflitos é bastante respeitável.
His approach to conflict resolution is quite respectable.
'Bastante' (quite) modifying 'respeitável'.
A sabedoria dos mais velhos é sempre respeitável.
The wisdom of the elders is always respectable.
Abstract noun 'sabedoria' (wisdom) modified by 'respeitável'.
Ele construiu uma carreira respeitável no setor financeiro.
He built a respectable career in the financial sector.
Using 'respeitável' with 'carreira'.
A universidade oferece programas de mestrado respeitáveis.
The university offers respectable master's programs.
Plural 'respeitáveis' with plural noun 'programas'.
O juiz tomou uma decisão respeitável com base nas evidências.
The judge made a respectable decision based on the evidence.
Using 'respeitável' with 'decisão'.
A sua dedicação à arte, apesar das dificuldades, torna o seu trabalho deveras respeitável.
His dedication to art, despite the difficulties, makes his work truly respectable.
'Deveras' (truly) intensifying 'respeitável'.
Poucos indivíduos conseguem manter um legado tão respeitável ao longo de décadas.
Few individuals manage to maintain such a respectable legacy over decades.
Using 'respeitável' with 'legado' and comparative structure.
A forma como ele lidou com a crise foi exemplar e muito respeitável.
The way he handled the crisis was exemplary and very respectable.
'Exemplar' and 'respeitável' used in parallel.
O museu abriga uma coleção respeitável de artefatos históricos.
The museum houses a respectable collection of historical artifacts.
'Coleção' (collection) modified by 'respeitável'.
A sua perseverança em alcançar os objetivos é uma qualidade respeitável.
His perseverance in achieving his goals is a respectable quality.
'Qualidade' (quality) modified by 'respeitável'.
O desenvolvimento sustentável da região é um feito respeitável.
The sustainable development of the region is a respectable achievement.
'Feito' (achievement) modified by 'respeitável'.
A crítica literária reconheceu o valor respeitável da sua última obra.
Literary criticism recognized the respectable value of his latest work.
'Valor' (value) modified by 'respeitável'.
Ele é um mentor respeitável para muitos jovens empreendedores.
He is a respectable mentor to many young entrepreneurs.
'Mentor' modified by 'respeitável'.
A sua obra filosófica, embora complexa, apresenta argumentos deveras respeitáveis e inovadores.
His philosophical work, although complex, presents truly respectable and innovative arguments.
Complex sentence structure with subordinate clauses.
O legado de Nelson Mandela é um exemplo inquestionavelmente respeitável de liderança moral.
Nelson Mandela's legacy is an unquestionably respectable example of moral leadership.
Abstract concept 'legado' (legacy) modified by 'respeitável'.
A resiliência demonstrada pela comunidade face à catástrofe natural foi profundamente respeitável.
The resilience shown by the community in the face of the natural disaster was deeply respectable.
'Resiliência' (resilience) modified by 'respeitável'.
A precisão e o rigor com que conduziu a investigação conferem-lhe um estatuto altamente respeitável.
The precision and rigor with which he conducted the research grant him a highly respectable status.
'Estatuto' (status) modified by 'respeitável'.
O seu compromisso com a justiça social, mesmo perante oposição, é verdadeiramente respeitável.
His commitment to social justice, even in the face of opposition, is truly respectable.
'Compromisso' (commitment) modified by 'respeitável'.
A forma como a nação se reergueu após a guerra foi um testemunho respeitável da sua força.
The way the nation rebuilt itself after the war was a respectable testament to its strength.
'Testemunho' (testament) modified by 'respeitável'.
O seu contributo para o avanço da medicina é inegavelmente respeitável e merece reconhecimento global.
His contribution to the advancement of medicine is undeniably respectable and deserves global recognition.
'Contribuição' (contribution) modified by 'respeitável'.
A diplomacia empregada para resolver a disputa foi um ato respeitável de negociação.
The diplomacy employed to resolve the dispute was a respectable act of negotiation.
'Ato' (act) modified by 'respeitável'.
A magnitude do seu altruísmo, manifestada em inúmeras ações anónimas, confere-lhe uma aura intrinsecamente respeitável.
The magnitude of his altruism, manifested in numerous anonymous actions, lends him an intrinsically respectable aura.
Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structure.
O corpus de trabalho deixado por este erudito é de tal monta que se estabelece como um pilar respeitável no campo da linguística comparada.
The body of work left by this scholar is of such magnitude that it establishes itself as a respectable pillar in the field of comparative linguistics.
Elevated vocabulary ('corpus', 'erudito', 'pilar').
A sua integridade inabalável perante pressões avassaladoras solidificou a sua posição como figura pública deveras respeitável.
His unshakeable integrity in the face of overwhelming pressures has solidified his position as a truly respectable public figure.
Abstract concepts and strong adverbs.
O museu, outrora modesto, evoluiu para albergar uma coleção de valor inestimável e um prestígio consideravelmente respeitável.
The museum, once modest, evolved to house a collection of inestimable value and a considerably respectable prestige.
Figurative language and nuanced adverbs.
A persistência com que defendeu os seus ideais, mesmo quando impopulares, é um testemunho respeitável da sua convicção.
The persistence with which he defended his ideals, even when unpopular, is a respectable testament to his conviction.
Focus on abstract qualities and their impact.
A sua capacidade de mediar conflitos complexos com equidade e discernimento é uma habilidade verdadeiramente respeitável.
His ability to mediate complex conflicts with fairness and discernment is a truly respectable skill.
Emphasis on sophisticated skills and their evaluation.
O legado deixado pelas gerações passadas, marcado por sacrifícios e sabedoria, constitui um património moralmente respeitável.
The legacy left by past generations, marked by sacrifices and wisdom, constitutes a morally respectable heritage.
Connecting past, present, and moral values.
A sua contribuição para o desenvolvimento de tecnologias limpas é um marco respeitável na luta contra as alterações climáticas.
His contribution to the development of clean technologies is a respectable milestone in the fight against climate change.
Connecting contributions to significant global issues.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To have a good and esteemed reputation.
A organização tem uma reputação respeitável no setor.
— To do something that earns respect.
Ele fez algo respeitável ao ajudar os necessitados.
— Regarded as deserving respect.
O seu trabalho é considerado respeitável por muitos.
— A person who is worthy of respect.
Ela é um ser respeitável em todos os aspetos.
— An achievement that earns respect.
Concluir o projeto foi um feito respeitável.
— A person of respectable worth or value.
Ele é uma pessoa de valor respeitável na comunidade.
— Behavior that is worthy of respect.
O seu comportamento em público foi sempre respeitável.
— A heritage or legacy that is worthy of respect.
O seu legado para a cidade é respeitável.
— A contribution that is worthy of respect.
A sua contribuição para a arte foi respeitável.
Often Confused With
'Respeitoso' means showing respect (behavior), while 'respeitável' means deserving respect (quality). A person can be 'respeitável' and also act 'respeitosamente'.
'Digno' means worthy, and is often used in phrases like 'digno de respeito' (worthy of respect). 'Respeitável' is a direct adjective meaning worthy of respect.
Closely related, 'admirável' focuses on inspiring admiration, while 'respeitável' focuses on deserving respect. Often interchangeable, but 'respeitável' can imply more gravitas.
Easily Confused
Both words relate to 'respeito' (respect).
'Respeitoso' describes behavior or attitude – how someone acts towards others. 'Respeitável' describes a person, thing, or action that inherently deserves respect due to their qualities or achievements. You can be 'respeitável' without always being 'respeitoso', and vice versa, though ideally they go together.
O aluno foi respeitoso com o professor, mas o seu trabalho não era respeitável. (The student was respectful to the teacher, but his work was not respectable.)
Both imply worthiness.
'Digno' means worthy or deserving in a general sense, often used in specific phrases like 'digno de nota' (worthy of note) or 'digno de respeito' (worthy of respect). 'Respeitável' is a direct adjective meaning inherently deserving of respect. 'Respeitável' is a more direct descriptor of someone or something that commands respect.
Ele é um profissional digno de nota. Ele é um profissional respeitável. (He is a noteworthy professional. He is a respectable professional.)
Both relate to positive regard.
'Admirar' is a verb meaning to regard with respect or warm approval. 'Respeitável' is an adjective describing the quality that makes someone or something worthy of admiration and respect. You admire someone who is respectable.
Eu admiro o seu trabalho respeitável. (I admire his respectable work.)
Both are formal adjectives indicating high regard.
'Ilustre' means distinguished, famous, and often associated with high social standing or significant public recognition. 'Respeitável' is more about intrinsic worthiness of respect, which can be achieved without being famous. An 'ilustre' person is almost always 'respeitável', but a 'respeitável' person is not necessarily 'ilustre'.
O palestrante era um académico ilustre e muito respeitável. (The speaker was an illustrious and very respectable academic.)
Both imply a good reputation.
'Conceituado' specifically refers to having a good reputation or being highly regarded within a certain field or community. 'Respeitável' is broader, focusing on the inherent quality of deserving respect, which may or may not be tied to a specific reputation. A 'conceituado' professional is usually 'respeitável'.
Ela é uma médica conceituada e uma pessoa respeitável. (She is a reputable doctor and a respectable person.)
Sentence Patterns
Substantivo + é + respeitável.
O senhor é respeitável.
Possessivo + substantivo + é + respeitável.
O seu trabalho é respeitável.
É + um/uma + substantivo + respeitável.
É uma instituição respeitável.
Substantivo + tem + uma reputação + respeitável.
A empresa tem uma reputação respeitável.
Substantivo + fez + uma contribuição + respeitável.
Ele fez uma contribuição respeitável.
O/A + substantivo + é + considerado/a + respeitável.
O seu legado é considerado respeitável.
Adverb + respeitável + substantivo.
Um profissional altamente respeitável.
A + substantivo + demonstra + uma qualidade + respeitável.
A sua resiliência demonstra uma qualidade respeitável.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Medium-High in formal contexts, Low in informal contexts.
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Using 'respeitável' for casual praise.
→
Using 'bom', 'delicioso', 'legal', etc.
'Respeitável' implies a significant degree of merit or worthiness of respect. Using it for trivial things sounds unnatural and diminishes its meaning. For example, calling a sandwich 'respeitável' is odd; 'delicioso' is more appropriate.
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Confusing 'respeitável' (deserving respect) with 'respeitoso' (showing respect).
→
'Respeitável' describes a quality; 'respeitoso' describes behavior.
A person can be 'respeitável' due to their achievements, and they can also act 'respeitoso' towards others. The mistake is using 'respeitável' to describe the action of showing respect.
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Incorrect pluralization: 'trabalhos respeitável' instead of 'trabalhos respeitáveis'.
→
Os trabalhos são respeitáveis.
The adjective must agree in number with the noun. Since 'trabalhos' is plural, the adjective must also be plural ('respeitáveis').
-
Using 'respeitável' for something that is merely acceptable or okay.
→
Using words like 'aceitável' or 'razoável'.
'Respeitável' implies a higher standard of worthiness than mere acceptability. It suggests genuine merit and esteem, not just meeting a minimum requirement.
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Treating 'respeitável' as a synonym for 'famous'.
→
Using 'famoso' or 'ilustre' for fame.
While many famous people are 'respeitáveis', being 'respeitável' does not automatically mean being famous. It's about deserving respect, which can be achieved through quiet integrity or significant contributions without widespread fame.
Tips
Formality is Key
Remember that 'respeitável' is a formal adjective. Use it when you want to convey genuine admiration for someone's character, achievements, or position, especially in professional, academic, or respectful discussions. Avoid using it in very casual conversations where it might sound out of place.
Agreement Matters
As an adjective, 'respeitável' must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. The singular form is 'respeitável' for both masculine and feminine nouns. The plural form is 'respeitáveis' for both masculine and feminine plural nouns.
Context is Crucial
Consider the context when using 'respeitável'. It's often associated with qualities like integrity, expertise, significant contributions, or a dignified presence. Using it appropriately demonstrates a nuanced understanding of Portuguese.
Stress the 'TA'
The stress in 'respeitável' falls on the third syllable: res-pei-TÁ-vel. Practicing this pronunciation will help you sound more natural when speaking Portuguese.
Distinguish from 'Respeitoso'
Don't confuse 'respeitável' (deserving respect) with 'respeitoso' (showing respect). While related, they describe different aspects: one is about inherent worthiness, the other is about behavior. Think: 'A person is respectable; their behavior is respectful.'
Visual Associations
Associate 'respeitável' with images of respected figures like wise elders, accomplished professionals, or historical leaders. Visualizing these figures can help you recall the word and its meaning more effectively.
Practice in Sentences
Actively try to use 'respeitável' in your own sentences. Describe people, achievements, or institutions you consider worthy of respect. This active recall is one of the best ways to solidify your understanding and usage.
Cultural Nuances
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, respect for elders and established figures is highly valued. 'Respeitável' aligns with this cultural emphasis, often used to acknowledge wisdom, experience, and societal contributions.
Explore Related Terms
Learn synonyms like 'admirável', 'digno', and 'ilustre'. Understanding these related words will broaden your vocabulary and allow you to express nuances of respect and admiration more precisely.
Know the Opposites
Understanding antonyms like 'desprezível' (despicable) or 'indigno' (unworthy) helps clarify the specific meaning of 'respeitável' by highlighting what it is not. This contrast reinforces its positive connotation.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a very important person, maybe a wise old king or queen, sitting on a throne. You bow your head because they are 'respeitável' – deserving of your utmost respect. The throne itself could be 'respeitável' for its significance.
Visual Association
Picture a statue of a historical figure in a prominent public square. The statue represents someone who achieved great things and is 'respeitável' – worthy of public admiration and respect.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three people you know (a teacher, a family member, a public figure) using the word 'respeitável' and explaining why they fit the description. Focus on their specific qualities or achievements.
Word Origin
The word 'respeitável' comes from the Latin word 'respectabilis', which itself derives from 'respectare', meaning 'to look back at', 'to regard', or 'to consider'. This root implies paying attention to something or someone, which is the foundation of respect.
Original meaning: Literally, 'able to be regarded' or 'worthy of being looked at with consideration'. Over time, this evolved to mean worthy of respect.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseCultural Context
Using 'respeitável' implies a genuine recognition of merit. It should not be used lightly or sarcastically, as it carries a weight of sincere admiration and esteem.
The closest English equivalent is 'respectable', but 'respeitável' can sometimes carry a stronger sense of admiration or even veneration, especially when referring to elders or figures of great accomplishment.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Award ceremonies and formal events
- Um indivíduo respeitável
- Uma conquista respeitável
- É uma honra apresentar a...
- Reconhecemos o seu trabalho respeitável.
Professional and academic discussions
- Um profissional respeitável
- Uma reputação respeitável
- O seu contributo é respeitável
- Consideramos a sua análise respeitável.
Referring to elders or community leaders
- O ancião respeitável
- Uma figura respeitável na comunidade
- A sabedoria respeitável dos mais velhos
- Ele é respeitável por todos.
Describing institutions or organizations
- Uma instituição respeitável
- Uma empresa respeitável
- Organizações respeitáveis
- Um histórico respeitável.
Discussing achievements or contributions
- Uma contribuição respeitável
- Um feito respeitável
- Um legado respeitável
- Um trabalho respeitável.
Legal or official pronouncements
- Uma decisão respeitável
- Um estatuto respeitável
- O tribunal considerou a prova respeitável.
- Um parecer respeitável.
Conversation Starters
"Quem é uma pessoa respeitável na sua comunidade e porquê?"
"Que tipo de trabalho você considera respeitável?"
"Como se pode construir uma reputação respeitável?"
"Existem instituições que você considera particularmente respeitáveis?"
"O que torna uma decisão respeitável, mesmo que seja difícil?"
Journal Prompts
Escreva sobre alguém que você admira e descreva por que essa pessoa é respeitável para você. Use a palavra 'respeitável' várias vezes.
Reflicta sobre uma conquista sua ou de alguém que conhece que poderia ser descrita como 'respeitável'. Detalhe o que a tornou assim.
Imagine que você está a escrever uma carta de recomendação para alguém. Como usaria a palavra 'respeitável' para descrever essa pessoa ou o seu trabalho?
Discuta a diferença entre ser 'respeitável' e ser 'popular'. Em que situações uma coisa é mais importante que a outra?
Pense numa instituição (escola, hospital, ONG). Que qualidades a tornariam 'respeitável' aos seus olhos? Descreva-as.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Respeitável' is generally considered a formal adjective. While it can be used in neutral contexts, it's less common in very casual or slang conversations. Its use implies a certain level of seriousness and acknowledgment of merit, making it more fitting for professional, academic, or respectful discussions about elders or achievements.
Yes, absolutely. 'Respeitável' can be used to describe actions, decisions, institutions, works of art, scientific contributions, or any entity that possesses qualities deserving of respect and admiration. For example, 'uma decisão respeitável' (a respectable decision) or 'uma coleção respeitável' (a respectable collection).
This is a common point of confusion. 'Respeitável' describes someone or something that *deserves* respect (it's a quality). 'Respeitoso' describes someone's behavior or attitude that *shows* respect towards others. A person can be 'respeitável' due to their achievements and also act 'respeitoso' towards others.
Not necessarily. Something can be 'respeitável' even if you don't fully agree with it. For instance, a judge's decision might be 'respeitável' based on the law and evidence, even if you disagree with the outcome. The term focuses on the grounds for respect, such as integrity, logic, or adherence to principles, rather than universal approval.
Like many Portuguese adjectives ending in 'l', the plural is formed by changing the 'l' to 'is'. So, the plural form is 'respeitáveis'. For example, 'Ele é um cientista respeitável', but 'Eles são cientistas respeitáveis'.
While technically possible in any language, using 'respeitável' sarcastically is quite rare and would likely require very specific context and tone to be understood as such. Its inherent meaning is one of genuine admiration, so its sarcastic use would be a strong ironic contrast.
The main antonyms include 'desprezível' (despicable, contemptible), 'indigno' (unworthy), and 'vergonhoso' (shameful, disgraceful). These words describe qualities or actions that are the opposite of deserving respect.
'Respeitável' is a moderately strong word, especially in formal contexts. It signifies more than just 'good' or 'nice'; it implies a level of earned esteem, integrity, or significant accomplishment that warrants admiration. It carries more weight than words like 'bom' (good) or 'interessante' (interesting).
'Respeitável' is the adjective form derived from the noun 'respeito' (respect). If something or someone is 'respeitável', it means they are worthy of 'respeito'.
Generally, no. 'Respeitável' is usually reserved for qualities like integrity, achievement, or moral standing. While you might say a chef has a 'reputação respeitável' (respectable reputation), you wouldn't typically describe a dish itself as 'respeitável'. More common adjectives for food would be 'delicioso', 'saboroso', 'bom', etc.
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Summary
Respeitável means deserving respect, often due to admirable qualities, achievements, or a high standing. It's a formal adjective used to express esteem and admiration.
- Respeitável: Deserving respect.
- Used for people, actions, or things that earn admiration.
- Formal adjective, often used in professional or serious contexts.
- Implies integrity, achievement, or significant positive qualities.
Formality is Key
Remember that 'respeitável' is a formal adjective. Use it when you want to convey genuine admiration for someone's character, achievements, or position, especially in professional, academic, or respectful discussions. Avoid using it in very casual conversations where it might sound out of place.
Agreement Matters
As an adjective, 'respeitável' must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. The singular form is 'respeitável' for both masculine and feminine nouns. The plural form is 'respeitáveis' for both masculine and feminine plural nouns.
Context is Crucial
Consider the context when using 'respeitável'. It's often associated with qualities like integrity, expertise, significant contributions, or a dignified presence. Using it appropriately demonstrates a nuanced understanding of Portuguese.
Stress the 'TA'
The stress in 'respeitável' falls on the third syllable: res-pei-TÁ-vel. Practicing this pronunciation will help you sound more natural when speaking Portuguese.
Example
Ele é um homem respeitável na comunidade.
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à medida que
A2As; at the same time that.
abençoado
A2Blessed, consecrated; sacred.
abrigo
A2Shelter, a place providing temporary protection from bad weather or danger.
acarinhar
A2To show affection to; to caress or cuddle.
aceito
A2Accepted; generally recognized or agreed upon.
acenar
A2To wave (as a greeting).
acolher
A2To receive (a guest or new member) with pleasure and hospitality.
acolhimento
A2The action of welcoming or receiving someone; hospitality or fostering.
acolitar
B2To assist or accompany.
acomodar
A2To provide lodging or space for.
