respeto
everyday
Respect in Mexican Spanish is respeto, a masculine noun. The verb is respetar, and the adjective is respetuoso.
Meaning: regard for others (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| respeto | everyday |
| respetar | verb |
Respect is a big value in Mexican families. People say hay que tener respeto about elders, and faltar al respeto means to be disrespectful.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Showing respect often means using usted and titles such as don and doña before a first name for older people.
Did you know?
- In Mexico younger people often greet older relatives with a kiss on the cheek or a handshake and add don or doña as a sign of respect.
Examples in context
- Los niños deben tener respeto a los mayores.Children must respect their elders.
- Me faltó al respeto frente a todos.He disrespected me in front of everyone.
- Respeta mi opinión, por favor.Respect my opinion, please.
Example conversation
Abuelo Juan talks with his grandson Pablo at home in Zacatecas.
- AbueloPablo, saluda con respeto a tu tía.Pablo, greet your aunt with respect.
- PabloBuenas tardes, tía, ¿cómo está?Good afternoon, aunt, how are you?
- AbueloAsí me gusta.That is how I like it.
