self-respect
B2formal to neutral
Definition
Meaning
a feeling of pride and confidence in oneself, valuing one's own worth and dignity.
The quality of maintaining proper regard for one's own character, principles, and well-being, which influences behavior, choices, and how one allows others to treat them.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a non-count noun; the compound is almost always hyphenated. It implies an internal, self-directed evaluation rather than a reaction to external praise.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences. The hyphenated form is standard in both. Minor vocabulary differences in context.
Connotations
Identical connotations of dignity, personal integrity, and healthy self-regard.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in British English in certain formal/educational contexts, but commonly used in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
to have self-respectto do something out of self-respecta loss of self-respectwith self-respectVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Discussed in leadership and HR contexts regarding employee dignity, preventing burnout, and ethical business practices.
Academic
Used in psychology, sociology, and philosophy papers discussing identity, moral agency, and social dynamics.
Everyday
Common in advice, self-help conversations, and discussions about setting boundaries or leaving unhealthy situations.
Technical
A defined construct in psychological scales measuring self-concept and well-being.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- He is a very self-respecting individual.
American English
- She made a self-respecting decision to leave the toxic job.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- It is important to have self-respect.
- He has no self-respect.
- She left the relationship because it hurt her self-respect.
- You should have enough self-respect to say no.
- His self-respect prevented him from accepting the bribe, despite the financial pressure.
- A nation must maintain its self-respect in international negotiations.
- The erosion of her self-respect was a gradual process, exacerbated by the constant microaggressions in the workplace.
- Philosophers argue that true autonomy is predicated on a foundational sense of self-respect.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
SELF-RESPECT: Show Esteem for your own Life and Feelings; Refuse to Endure Poor treatment, Expect Courtesy for Yourself.
Conceptual Metaphor
SELF-RESPECT IS A TREASURE / A SHIELD. It is a valuable possession to be guarded, and it protects the self from harmful actions or treatment.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid directly translating as 'самоуважение' in contexts where 'чувство собственного достоинства' is more idiomatic and captures the moral dimension.
- Do not confuse with 'гордость' (pride), which can be negative; self-respect is almost exclusively positive.
Common Mistakes
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I self-respect myself').
- Spelling as one unhyphenated word 'selfrespect'.
- Confusing it with 'selfishness'.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the closest antonym of 'self-respect'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Self-esteem' is a broader, more general evaluation of one's overall worth, which can fluctuate. 'Self-respect' is more specific and stable, relating to dignity and adherence to one's own moral standards.
No, 'self-respect' is exclusively a noun. The related verbal idea is 'to respect oneself'.
Yes, the standard and most common form is the hyphenated compound noun 'self-respect'.
In most contexts, yes, as it suggests a person allows poor treatment or compromises their values. However, in some philosophical discussions, it might be analyzed neutrally as a state to be remedied.
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