Respekt
/ʁəˈspɛkt/masculine
The English word respect can be translated into German as Respekt or Achtung.
Meaning: admiration for a person or entity because of perceived merit (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Respekt | /ʁəˈspɛkt/ | masculine |
| Achtung | /ˈaxtʊŋ/ | feminine |
Both terms express admiration for a person or entity due to perceived merit. However, Respekt is the standard term used to describe the psychological feeling of admiration for someone's qualities or achievements. The verb respektieren is used when one wants to express the act of abiding by an agreement or having regard for the rights of others.
Which one should you use?
Respekt is the modern and general term for admiration of merit. In contrast, Achtung carries a sense of deference, attention or caution, particularly toward authority figures or elders.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Respekt is a masculine noun, while Achtung is a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʁəˈspɛkt/
Did you know?
- If a German speaker says Ich habe Respekt vor… regarding a dangerous animal or a storm, they are expressing fear or caution rather than admiration.
- The word Achtung can function as a warning label on signs, similar to how an English speaker might see 'Caution' or 'Warning' on a physical hazard.
- In a formal context, if a German officer or authority figure shouts Achtung!, they are not just asking for your respect, but are commanding your immediate, undivided attention.
Examples in context
- Tom sucht nach Respekt.Tom wants respect.This sentence shows the use of Respekt in the context of seeking respect.Tatoeba #6625249 by Felixjp, translation #4501797 by CK
- Habe Achtung vor Älteren.Respect your elders.This sentence demonstrates how Achtung can be used to express respect toward elders.Tatoeba #1683920 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1682918 by Spamster
- Er verdient auch Respekt.He deserves respect, too.This sentence illustrates the use of Respekt regarding someone deserving respect.Tatoeba #12573402 by mhr, translation #13189609 by rul
- Ich habe großen Respekt vor Ihrer Leistung.I have great respect for your accomplishment.
- Ich respektiere deine Meinung.I respect your opinion.
- Ich schätze deine Arbeit wirklich.I really appreciate your work.
- 197 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hannah and Felix are discussing a colleague's achievement at work.
- HannahHast du die neue Chefin gesehen?Have you seen the new boss?
- FelixJa, ich habe großen Respekt vor ihr.Yes, I have great respect for her.
- HannahSie ist wirklich sehr kompetent.She is really very competent.
- FelixDas stimmt, sie ist toll.That's true, she is great.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “respect” translations and entries Respekt, Achtung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
