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Definition of respectfully

respectfully

/rɪˈspɛkt.fəl.i/
re · spect · ful · ly
Adjective:respectful
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respectfully Lexical Profile

respectfully Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that shows politeness, deference, honor, or high regard toward someone or something.

Example

"The students listened respectfully as the guest speaker shared her experiences."

2

Used as a polite formula to soften a disagreement, request, or criticism, or as a formal complimentary close in a letter.

Example

"Respectfully, I must disagree with the committee's assessment of the budget."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Frequently confused with 'respectively', which means separately and in the order already mentioned.

• Rhymes for respectfully

• Nearby Words

respected
respecter
respectful
respectfully
respectfulness
respecting
respective

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 16th century from the adjective 'respectful' (derived from Latin 'respectus', meaning 'regard' or 'consideration') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Respectfully. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/respectfully
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