Respect vs. Honor

I'm sure you've wondered about the differences and similarities between these two words at least once, hm? Well, let me guide you through this lesson.

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both indicate admiring someone and giving someone/something value and importance. However, 'respect' is not as strong as 'honor'. 'Respect' is praising someone, whereas, 'honor' is more about how someone is highly important and has a good reputation in society.

Differences

As stated above, 'respect' is not as strong as 'honor'. When you respect someone, you treat them nicely, praise them and treat them as being important. Look at the examples below:

With all due respect, I'm afraid I cannot agree with you on this matter.

You know, respecting someone is different from worshipping them.

'Honor', on the other hand, refers to a more strong view of someone. This 'honorable' person is an important figure in society, has a fine reputation, and represents certain moral standards of behavior. Check out the examples below:

It really has been an honor meeting you, your majesty.

In order to honor the hero of our country, we are gathered here tonight.

Similarities

As stated above, they are both related to treating someone appropriately and deeming them important and valuable in a community. Look at the examples below:

But I'm must say professor, it is an honor to have you back with us at last.

Jonathon showed absolutely no respect towards his father.

Are They Interchangeable?

Although they both refer to admiring someone and valuing them and their actions, they can never be used interchangeably because 'honor' is stronger than 'respect'. Compare:

✓ What an honor it is to finally meet you in person.

X What an respect it is to finally meet you in person.

As you can see, this one is totally wrong.

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