In 15 Seconds
- Earn genuine admiration through actions.
- Implies deep respect, not just popularity.
- Best for formal or thoughtful contexts.
- Focuses on character, achievements, and integrity.
Meaning
This phrase is all about earning genuine admiration from others. It's not just about being liked, but about people looking up to you because of your character, accomplishments, or how you carry yourself. Think of it as a quiet, earned respect that makes people feel good about acknowledging your worth.
Key Examples
3 of 12Congratulating a colleague on a promotion
恭喜你获得这个职位!你一直以来都非常努力,是大家`受人尊敬`的榜样。
Congratulations on getting this position! You've always worked very hard; you're a role model respected by everyone.
Discussing a historical figure
这位科学家一生致力于研究,`受人尊敬`,他的发现改变了世界。
This scientist dedicated their life to research; they are respected and their discoveries changed the world.
Describing a community elder
村里的老奶奶大家都`受人尊敬`,因为她总是乐于助人。
Everyone in the village respects the old grandma because she is always willing to help others.
Cultural Background
The concept of `受人尊敬` is deeply rooted in Confucian values, which emphasize moral character, integrity, and social harmony. Earning respect through virtuous actions and contributions to society, rather than just wealth or power, has always been highly valued. This phrase reflects a cultural ideal where individuals strive to be role models, contributing to a stable and admirable social fabric. It’s the quiet acknowledgment of a life well-lived and positively impactful.
It's Earned, Not Given
Remember, `受人尊敬` isn't about demanding respect. It's about consistently demonstrating qualities like integrity, competence, and kindness that naturally lead others to admire you.
The Quiet Power of Virtue
In Chinese culture, true respect often comes from quiet virtue and selfless contribution, not loud self-promotion. `受人尊敬` embodies this ideal of earning esteem through character.
In 15 Seconds
- Earn genuine admiration through actions.
- Implies deep respect, not just popularity.
- Best for formal or thoughtful contexts.
- Focuses on character, achievements, and integrity.
What It Means
This phrase, 受人尊敬 (shòu rén zūn jìng), isn't just about people noticing you. It means you've actively done things or possess qualities that make others naturally look up to you. It’s the feeling you get when people genuinely admire your integrity, skills, or achievements. It's that warm glow of knowing your actions have earned you a place of esteem in their eyes. It’s like being the 'cool teacher' everyone respects, not fears!
How To Use It
You can use 受人尊敬 to describe someone who has achieved this status. For example, you might say a wise elder in your community is 受人尊敬. Or perhaps a dedicated doctor who always puts patients first. You could even describe a fictional character who embodies these traits. It's versatile enough for many situations where you want to highlight earned admiration. Think about that colleague who always has your back; they are likely 受人尊敬.
Formality & Register
This phrase leans towards the formal side, but not stuffy formal. It's the kind of language you'd use in a more serious conversation or a written piece, like a biography or a speech. While you wouldn't typically use it in a casual text to your bestie about last night's pizza, you *would* use it when discussing someone's character in a professional setting or a thoughtful review. It carries a certain weight, so it fits best when you want to sound sincere and appreciative. It’s like wearing a nice blazer – appropriate for many settings, but maybe not for lounging on the couch.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine a retired teacher who mentored countless students; they are 受人尊敬. Or a CEO known for ethical practices and employee welfare; they are also 受人尊敬. Even a young activist fighting for a cause with unwavering dedication can become 受人尊敬. It applies to anyone whose actions inspire positive regard from others. Think about historical figures or local heroes – they often embody this quality. It’s about actions speaking louder than words, earning that respect.
When To Use It
Use 受人尊敬 when you want to convey deep, earned admiration. It's perfect for describing mentors, leaders, or anyone whose life or work has positively impacted others. You can use it in speeches, formal introductions, character analyses, or even when reflecting on people you admire. If you're writing a recommendation letter or talking about someone's legacy, this phrase fits right in. It’s for those moments when you want to give credit where credit is truly due. It’s like giving a standing ovation, but with words.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using 受人尊敬 for fleeting popularity or superficial charm. If someone is just 'trendy' or 'famous for being famous,' this phrase doesn't apply. It’s also not for someone who demands respect rather than earns it. Don't use it in super casual chats where simpler words suffice, like texting about a funny meme. It’s too serious for that! And definitely don't use it if you don't genuinely feel the person has earned it; it would sound hollow. It's not for your crush you just met at the coffee shop.
Common Mistakes
A common pitfall is confusing it with simply being 'liked' (受欢迎 - shòu huānyíng). 受欢迎 means popular, which is nice, but 受人尊敬 implies a deeper level of admiration based on character or achievement. Another mistake is using it for someone who is merely obedient or follows rules; that's not respect, that's compliance! Oh, and don't try to say 'I am respected by myself' with this phrase; it's about respect *from others*. That would be a whole different sentence, maybe involving self-reflection!
Common Variations
While 受人尊敬 is quite standard, you might hear slightly different phrasing depending on context. Sometimes, people might say 令人尊敬 (lìng rén zūn jìng), meaning 'causing people to respect' or 'worthy of respect.' It's very similar in meaning and formality. For a more colloquial feel, especially among younger generations discussing online personalities, they might simplify the sentiment, though a direct slang equivalent isn't common. They might just say someone is 'awesome' or 'a legend,' but 受人尊敬 captures that specific earned admiration more formally. It’s like the difference between 'cool' and 'esteemed.'
Real Conversations
Scenario 1: Talking about a former teacher.
Person A: My old history teacher, Mr. Chen, was amazing. He made every lesson feel alive.
Person B: Absolutely. He was truly 受人尊敬 by all his students. He really cared about our futures.
Scenario 2: Discussing a community leader.
Person A: Did you see the report on Mrs. Lee's charity work?
Person B: Yes, she’s incredible. She’s become a figure 受人尊敬 throughout the entire city for her dedication.
Quick FAQ
- What's the core idea?
Earned admiration and high regard from others.
- Is it about being popular?
No, it's deeper than popularity; it's about character and deeds.
- Can I use it for myself?
Yes, but it's more common to describe others.
- Is it formal?
It leans formal but is widely understood and appreciated.
Usage Notes
This phrase carries a formal tone and implies earned respect based on character, actions, or achievements. Avoid using it for superficial popularity or in very casual conversations. Ensure the context genuinely supports the idea of deep admiration rather than just being liked or holding a position of authority.
It's Earned, Not Given
Remember, `受人尊敬` isn't about demanding respect. It's about consistently demonstrating qualities like integrity, competence, and kindness that naturally lead others to admire you.
The Quiet Power of Virtue
In Chinese culture, true respect often comes from quiet virtue and selfless contribution, not loud self-promotion. `受人尊敬` embodies this ideal of earning esteem through character.
Don't Confuse with Popularity!
A common pitfall! Being `受欢迎` (popular) is different from being `受人尊敬` (respected). You can be loved by many but not truly respected if your character or actions don't hold up.
Use it for Role Models
This phrase is perfect for describing teachers, mentors, elders, or leaders who serve as positive examples. It elevates them beyond mere competence to genuine admiration.
Examples
12恭喜你获得这个职位!你一直以来都非常努力,是大家`受人尊敬`的榜样。
Congratulations on getting this position! You've always worked very hard; you're a role model respected by everyone.
Here, the phrase highlights the colleague's admirable qualities that led to their success and earned them respect.
这位科学家一生致力于研究,`受人尊敬`,他的发现改变了世界。
This scientist dedicated their life to research; they are respected and their discoveries changed the world.
Used to describe the deep admiration earned by the scientist through their lifelong work and impact.
村里的老奶奶大家都`受人尊敬`,因为她总是乐于助人。
Everyone in the village respects the old grandma because she is always willing to help others.
Emphasizes the respect the elder commands due to her consistent kindness and helpfulness.
感谢我的导师,他不仅教会我知识,更教会我如何成为一个`受人尊敬`的人。#mentorlove #gratitude
Thank you to my mentor; he not only taught me knowledge but also how to be a respectable person. #mentorlove #gratitude
Used in a social media context to express deep appreciation for a mentor's influence on personal growth.
面试官对这位候选人印象深刻,认为他是一位`受人尊敬`的专业人士。
The interviewer was deeply impressed by this candidate, considering him a respected professional.
Highlights the candidate's professional demeanor and qualities that command respect in a formal setting.
在中文里,`受欢迎`意味着受欢迎,而`受人尊敬`则意味着赢得他人的敬佩。
In Chinese, `受欢迎` means popular, while `受人尊敬` means earning others' admiration.
Clarifies the distinction between popularity and genuine respect, a common point of confusion.
✗ 他在学校很受欢迎,所以他`受人尊敬`。 → ✓ 他在学校很受欢迎,但他更是一位`受人尊敬`的学长,因为他总是帮助同学。
✗ He is popular at school, so he is respected. → ✓ He is popular at school, but he is more importantly a respected senior because he always helps classmates.
This mistake example shows how popularity doesn't automatically equate to respect; respect needs a basis in character or action.
✗ 我希望我的狗`受人尊敬`。 → ✓ 我希望我的狗能被大家喜爱。
✗ I hope my dog is respected. → ✓ I hope my dog is loved by everyone.
Shows that `受人尊敬` is typically for people and implies a level of moral or intellectual regard not usually applied to pets.
她是一位真正`受人尊敬`的艺术家,她的作品充满了对生活的热爱。
She is a truly respected artist; her works are filled with a love for life.
Expresses admiration for an artist, linking respect to their creative output and passion.
这位领导者之所以`受人尊敬`,是因为他始终以身作则,关心下属。
The reason this leader is respected is that he always leads by example and cares about his subordinates.
Explains the foundation of respect: leading by example and genuine care for others.
我超佩服我老板的,他能力强,人品也好,绝对是`受人尊敬`的那种人。
I really admire my boss; he's capable and has great character. He's definitely the kind of person who is respected.
A more colloquial way to express strong admiration, using the phrase to summarize the boss's admirable qualities.
我希望通过我的努力,未来能成为一个`受人尊敬`的人。
I hope that through my efforts, I can become a person who is respected in the future.
Expresses a personal aspiration to achieve earned respect through future actions and character development.
Test Yourself
Choose the sentence that correctly uses `受人尊敬`.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly contrasts popularity (`受欢迎`) with earned respect (`受人尊敬`), showing a nuanced understanding. The other options misuse the phrase or create illogical statements.
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The context describes a doctor earning admiration through skill and ethics, making 'respect' (`尊敬`) the most fitting word. The phrase `受人尊敬` encapsulates this idea of being respected by others.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The original sentence mixes 'liked' (`喜欢`) with 'respected' (`受人尊敬`) somewhat awkwardly. The corrected version clearly states *why* he is respected, using the phrase more precisely to describe the person.
Translate this sentence into Chinese.
The translation uses `备受尊敬` (bèi shòu zūn jìng), a common and slightly more emphatic variation of `受人尊敬`, fitting for describing a prominent figure in a professional community.
Choose the sentence that correctly uses `受人尊敬`.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly links `受人尊敬` to positive actions (inspiring students). The other options present illogical connections (selfies don't inherently earn respect) or inappropriate subjects (pets, effortlessness).
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The context highlights academic achievement and personal charm leading to admiration, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of `受人尊敬`. Popularity (`受欢迎`) or being liked (`被喜爱`) doesn't capture the depth of respect earned.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The original sentence implies 'popularity' is the opposite of respect, which is true, but the structure is slightly off. The corrected version uses `受欢迎` as a distinct concept being contrasted, making the comparison clearer and more impactful.
Translate this sentence into Chinese.
This translation uses `值得高度尊敬` (zhí dé gāo dù zūn jìng), which emphasizes that the person *deserves* the high respect they receive, directly reflecting the source sentence's nuance.
Put the words in the correct order to form a meaningful sentence.
This reordering creates a natural sentence structure where 'he' (`他`) is described as a role model (`榜样`) who is respected by 'us' (`我们`). The phrase `受人尊敬` functions as an adjective modifying 'role model'.
Match the Chinese phrase with its closest English meaning.
This exercise helps learners differentiate between subtle variations of 'respect' in Chinese, highlighting nuances in emphasis and the source of the respect.
Fill in the blank with the most appropriate phrase.
The actions described (large donations and personal involvement) inspire deep admiration and reverence, best captured by `深深敬意` (shēn shēn jìng yì), which implies a profound level of respect often associated with `受人尊敬`.
Translate this sentence into Chinese.
This translation directly uses `受人尊敬` to describe the man, emphasizing that 'everyone respects him' due to his integrity. It’s a concise and natural way to convey the original meaning.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum for '受人尊敬'
Too formal for everyday chat or slang.
Nah, wouldn't use it to describe my fave streamer.
Slightly too formal for texting friends.
Maybe if you're telling a story about someone awesome.
Fits well in thoughtful discussions, reviews, or describing admired figures.
Describing a respected teacher or mentor.
Ideal for professional settings, speeches, or written works.
Writing a recommendation or biography.
When Do You Earn Respect? ('受人尊敬')
Mentoring
A senior colleague guiding a junior.
Professional Excellence
A doctor with a great bedside manner.
Community Service
A volunteer leading a local initiative.
Moral Integrity
Someone who always does the right thing.
Significant Achievements
A scientist making a breakthrough.
Leadership
A leader who inspires trust and loyalty.
Respect vs. Popularity vs. Admiration
Nuances of Earning Esteem
Basis of Respect
- • Moral character
- • Skills & Expertise
- • Achievements
- • Leadership Qualities
- • Altruism
Contexts
- • Professional life
- • Community roles
- • Academic settings
- • Family
- • Public service
Related Feelings
- • Admiration
- • Esteem
- • Trust
- • Reverence
- • Inspiration
Practice Bank
12 exercisesWhich sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly contrasts popularity (`受欢迎`) with earned respect (`受人尊敬`), showing a nuanced understanding. The other options misuse the phrase or create illogical statements.
他是一位经验丰富的外科医生,以其精湛的技术和医德,赢得了所有人的 ______。
The context describes a doctor earning admiration through skill and ethics, making 'respect' (`尊敬`) the most fitting word. The phrase `受人尊敬` encapsulates this idea of being respected by others.
Find and fix the mistake:
他因为帮助了很多人,所以大家都喜欢他,他很受人尊敬。
The original sentence mixes 'liked' (`喜欢`) with 'respected' (`受人尊敬`) somewhat awkwardly. The corrected version clearly states *why* he is respected, using the phrase more precisely to describe the person.
She is a highly respected figure in the scientific community.
Hints: Use 'highly' or 'very' for emphasis., Consider 'figure' or 'person'.
The translation uses `备受尊敬` (bèi shòu zūn jìng), a common and slightly more emphatic variation of `受人尊敬`, fitting for describing a prominent figure in a professional community.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly links `受人尊敬` to positive actions (inspiring students). The other options present illogical connections (selfies don't inherently earn respect) or inappropriate subjects (pets, effortlessness).
这位老教授的学术成就和人格魅力,使他成为我们学院里______的人物。
The context highlights academic achievement and personal charm leading to admiration, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of `受人尊敬`. Popularity (`受欢迎`) or being liked (`被喜爱`) doesn't capture the depth of respect earned.
Find and fix the mistake:
他努力工作,希望最终能受人尊敬,而不是仅仅受欢迎。
The original sentence implies 'popularity' is the opposite of respect, which is true, but the structure is slightly off. The corrected version uses `受欢迎` as a distinct concept being contrasted, making the comparison clearer and more impactful.
His integrity and dedication have made him a figure deserving of great respect.
Hints: 'Integrity' can be translated as 正直., 'Deserving of great respect' can be expressed with a phrase like 值得高度尊敬.
This translation uses `值得高度尊敬` (zhí dé gāo dù zūn jìng), which emphasizes that the person *deserves* the high respect they receive, directly reflecting the source sentence's nuance.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This reordering creates a natural sentence structure where 'he' (`他`) is described as a role model (`榜样`) who is respected by 'us' (`我们`). The phrase `受人尊敬` functions as an adjective modifying 'role model'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
This exercise helps learners differentiate between subtle variations of 'respect' in Chinese, highlighting nuances in emphasis and the source of the respect.
这位慈善家不仅捐赠巨款,还亲自参与项目,赢得了社会各界的______。
The actions described (large donations and personal involvement) inspire deep admiration and reverence, best captured by `深深敬意` (shēn shēn jìng yì), which implies a profound level of respect often associated with `受人尊敬`.
He is a man of integrity whom everyone respects.
Hints: 'Man of integrity' can be translated as 正直的人., Ensure the phrase `受人尊敬` fits grammatically.
This translation directly uses `受人尊敬` to describe the man, emphasizing that 'everyone respects him' due to his integrity. It’s a concise and natural way to convey the original meaning.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
18 questionsLiterally, it translates to 'receive person respect.' This breaks down as 受 (shòu) meaning 'receive' or 'be subjected to,' 人 (rén) meaning 'person' or 'people,' and 尊敬 (zūn jìng) meaning 'respect' or 'esteem.' So, it signifies being the recipient of respect from people.
It leans towards the formal side, yes. You wouldn't typically use it in super casual chat or text messages unless you're discussing someone's admirable qualities in a more serious or thoughtful way. It carries weight and sounds sincere, making it suitable for professional contexts or when discussing someone's character in depth.
While it's more common to describe others, you *can* use it to express your own aspirations. For example, you might say, '我希望未来能成为一个受人尊敬的人' (I hope to become a person who is respected in the future). It shows ambition related to character and contribution, not just success.
受人尊敬 implies deep admiration based on a person's character, actions, or achievements. It's about earning esteem. 受欢迎, on the other hand, simply means popular or well-liked, which can sometimes be superficial and doesn't necessarily involve deep respect for one's qualities.
The phrase strongly aligns with Confucian ideals that emphasize moral cultivation and contributing positively to society. Earning respect through virtue, integrity, and fulfilling one's social roles is a cornerstone of traditional Chinese culture, making 受人尊敬 a reflection of these deeply held values.
Yes, if the person you're describing clearly hasn't earned respect through their actions or character, using 受人尊敬 might sound sarcastic or insincere. It's best reserved for individuals who genuinely demonstrate qualities that warrant admiration, like integrity, hard work, or kindness.
A frequent error is confusing it with mere popularity (受欢迎). Learners might think if someone is famous or liked, they must be 受人尊敬. However, respect requires a foundation in character or significant achievements, not just being well-known or agreeable.
Certainly. You could write: '我非常感谢[Colleague's Name]一直以来的指导,他是一位真正受人尊敬的领导者,从他身上我学到了很多宝贵的经验。' (I am very grateful for [Colleague's Name]'s guidance all along. He is a truly respected leader, and I have learned much valuable experience from him.)
受人尊敬 focuses on the state of *being respected* by others. 令人尊敬 means 'causing others to respect' or 'worthy of respect,' highlighting the qualities that *elicit* respect. They are very close in meaning and often interchangeable, but 令人尊敬 emphasizes the cause of respect more directly.
You could say they are 受人尊敬. Alternatively, you might use 令人钦佩 (lìng rén qīnpèi), meaning 'admirable,' which strongly emphasizes the admiration aspect, especially suitable for acts of bravery or great skill.
Direct informal equivalents are rare because 受人尊敬 implies a certain depth. In very casual contexts, people might use slang or simpler phrases like '超厉害' (chāo lìhài - super capable) or '真牛' (zhēn niú - truly awesome), but these lack the specific nuance of earned, deep respect.
德高望重 (dé gāo wàng zhòng) is a more specific idiom, usually applied to older individuals who possess both high moral character (德高) and great prestige or influence (望重). It implies a profound level of respect earned over a long life of virtue and contribution.
Absolutely! It's very commonly used when discussing historical figures, leaders, or influential individuals whose actions and character have earned them lasting respect. For example, '孙中山先生是一位受人尊敬的革命家' (Mr. Sun Yat-sen was a respected revolutionary.)
This is where 受人尊敬 shines. It clearly denotes respect based on qualities like integrity, skill, or authority, which might exist independently of personal likability. You could say someone is 受人尊敬 but perhaps not 受欢迎.
Ensure the person you're describing genuinely embodies qualities that lead to respect – integrity, significant achievements, wisdom, or consistent ethical behavior. Using it for someone who is merely popular or holds a position of authority without demonstrating these qualities will sound forced.
Yes, definitely. You could say something like, 'The protagonist's journey of overcoming adversity and maintaining his integrity made him a truly 受人尊敬 character.' It effectively conveys the audience's earned admiration for the character's development.
备受尊敬 (bèi shòu zūn jìng) is essentially a more emphatic version of 受人尊敬. The prefix 备 (bèi) means 'fully' or 'highly,' so 备受尊敬 implies being highly respected, often by a large number of people or to a great degree. It suggests a more widespread or intense level of respect.
Not necessarily perfection. While it implies strong positive qualities, it doesn't mean the person is flawless. It signifies that their overall character, actions, or contributions are significant enough to warrant deep respect, even if they have minor imperfections.
Related Phrases
受欢迎
antonymPopular; well-liked
This phrase is often contrasted with `受人尊敬` because popularity doesn't always equate to genuine, deep respect based on character.
令人尊敬
synonymWorthy of respect; causing respect
Very similar to `受人尊敬`, but `令人尊敬` emphasizes the qualities that *cause* others to respect someone, rather than the state of *being* respected.
备受尊敬
formal versionHighly respected; widely respected
This is a more intensified version of `受人尊敬`, adding emphasis to suggest a higher degree or broader scope of respect received.
德高望重
related topicOf noble character and high prestige (often for elders)
This idiom describes someone, typically older, who is deeply respected due to their high moral standing and significant influence, representing a specific type of `受人尊敬` individual.
令人钦佩
related topicAdmirable; worthy of admiration
While `受人尊敬` focuses on respect, `令人钦佩` highlights admiration, often for bravery, skill, or outstanding achievements, which can certainly lead to respect.
受人爱戴
related topicLoved and respected by people
This phrase combines respect (`尊敬`) with affection (`爱戴`), suggesting a warmer, more personal connection than just `受人尊敬` alone.