respeta
“respeta” means “respects” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
respects
Also: honors, follows
📝 In Action
Ella respeta mucho a sus profesores.
A2She respects her teachers a lot.
El conductor respeta las señales de tráfico.
A2The driver respects/follows the traffic signs.
Usted respeta la privacidad de los demás.
B1You (formal) respect the privacy of others.
respect!
Also: show respect
📝 In Action
Hijo, respeta a tus mayores.
A2Son, respect your elders.
Respeta el silencio de la biblioteca.
A2Respect the silence of the library.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: respeta
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'respeta' to mean 'She respects the law'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'respectare,' which literally means 'to look back at' or 'to regard.' It suggests the idea of looking at someone or something with enough attention to value it.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'respeta' formal or informal?
It depends! As a statement ('he respects'), it is neutral. As a command ('Respect!'), it is informal, used with friends or family.
Does it mean the same thing as 'cumple'?
Sometimes. 'Respeta las reglas' and 'Cumple las reglas' both mean following rules, but 'respeta' implies a deeper level of consideration or honor.

