rispetto

Rispetto is an Italian noun that denotes esteem, consideration, or deference shown toward people, ideas, or norms. It covers interpersonal attitudes—avere rispetto per qualcuno, mostrare rispetto—as well as conformity to rules, institutions, or rights—rispetto delle leggi, rispetto dei diritti. It also appears in phrases that indicate relevance or orientation, such as rispetto a, meaning with regard to or in respect of.

The term derives from Latin respectus, from respicere, meaning to regard or to look back. Over time, Italian usage preserved both the sense of regard and the sense of adherence or adherence to standards. The verb rispettare means to respect, while rispettoso describes someone or something that shows respect or courtesy.

In social life, respect is a central aspect of interaction in Italian culture. It influences forms of address (the formal Lei versus the informal tu), treatment of elders and authorities, and adherence to social and professional norms. The idea of earning respect (guadagnare rispetto) is widely recognized, and violations of respect (mancanza di rispetto) are commonly noted or discussed in daily discourse.

Rispetto can be translated into English as “respect” or “regard,” depending on context. Related terms include rispettoso (respectful) and rispettare (to respect). In legal, ethical, and organizational contexts, respect also encompasses compliance with rights and duties, and the broader notion of treating others with consideration and dignity.