In Respect To: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
December 21, 2023

The phrase "in respect to" is used to talk about how something relates to or concerns another subject or topic. When you use "in respect to," you are signaling that you want to describe, discuss, or point out a certain aspect or detail of the subject at hand. It is a way to focus on a particular element or feature of what you are talking about.

In short:

  • "In respect to" is about how one thing relates to or concerns another.
  • It helps focus the discussion on a specific part or aspect of the subject.

What Does "In Respect To" Mean?

The phrase "in respect to" is used to talk about the relationship between two things. It's a way to zoom in on a specific point or feature of what you're discussing. For instance, if you're talking about a movie, you might say, "In respect to the plot, it was really engaging," to focus your comments on the storyline.

Let's look at some key points:

  • "In respect to" is a tool for making your point clear by focusing on a particular area or feature.
  • It's often used to bring attention to a certain part of a discussion or subject.
  • It shows that you're talking about a specific aspect, not the whole topic.
  • You can use it to clarify or explain things in both casual and formal settings.
  • Similar phrases include "regarding," "concerning," and "in relation to."

Where Does "In Respect To" Come From?

The term “respect” in this phrase can be traced back to the late 14th century, meaning “relationship, relation; regard, consideration.” It comes from Old French respect and directly from the Latin "respectus," which means “regard, a looking at,” literally “act of looking back (or often) at one." The phrase is used in the sense of “have reference to, relate to,” and this usage dates back to the 1560s.

Historical Example

"In respect to the objects, and subjects upon whom the Spirit, who is the official promulgator of the Gospel operates."

- The Philosophy of the Human Mind, in Respect to Religion, 1813

10 Examples of "In Respect To" in Sentences

To help you understand how to use "in respect to," let's check out some examples that touch on various situations:

  • We need to wind back our expectations in respect to the project’s timeline.
  • They agreed to disagree in respect to political views.
  • In respect to the upcoming elections, I’m ready to cast my vote for the candidate who aligns with my values.
  • The teacher gave us extra work in respect to our upcoming exams.
  • She has a lot to offer in respect to experience and knowledge.
  • In respect to health, he started going to the gym regularly.
  • We need to talk about the project in respect to deadlines.
  • In respect to the local store, it’s unfortunate that they had to go out of business due to the economic downturn.
  • The decision will land on the board members in respect to the proposed merger of the companies.
  • In respect to holidays, they always go somewhere new.

Examples of "In Respect To" in Pop Culture

The phrase "in respect to" often appears in various media forms, usually when discussing a specific topic in depth.

Here are some examples:

  • The book "In Respect to Egotism: Studies in American Romantic Writing" is about the examination of nineteenth-century literature, focusing on the general question of the American Romantic ego and its varying modalities of self-creation, self-display, self-projection, and self-concealment.
  • The book "The Power and Duty of Congress in Respect to Sufferage" delves into the critical issue of voting rights in the United States. Written by Washburn Israel, the book argues that it's Congress's constitutional responsibility to make sure every citizen, regardless of race or gender, can vote.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "In Respect To"

If you're looking for other ways to say "in respect to," you've got options.

Here are some:

  • About
  • Regarding
  • On the subject of
  • Concerning
  • As for
  • In terms of
  • When it comes to
  • With regard to
  • Relating to
  • In relation to

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "In Respect To":

  • What does "in respect to" mean?

"In respect to" means concerning or with regard to a specific topic, subject, or aspect. It's used to focus a conversation on a particular area.

  • How can I use "in respect to" in a sentence?

You can use "in respect to" to point out what part of a situation or topic you're talking about. For example: "In respect to salary, she is well-compensated." "I agree with you in respect to the need for better public transport."

  • Is "in respect to" formal language?

While "in respect to" is not overly formal, it's often used in written language or in structured conversation. It's not as casual as saying "about" or "concerning," but it's not stiff or too formal either.

  • Is the phrase commonly used in legal or academic texts?

Yes, "in respect to" often appears in legal or academic texts to precisely pinpoint a specific aspect or area under discussion.

  • Can it be used to group things together?

Yes, "in respect to" can be used to group related items or ideas together. For example: "In respect to fruits, apples and oranges are his favorites."

  • Does "in respect to" imply importance or priority?

Not necessarily. The phrase simply focuses attention on a specific area, but it doesn't indicate that this area is more important than others.

  • Is "in respect to" the same as "in regards to"?

While they are similar and often used interchangeably, "in regards to" is generally considered less formal and can be seen as less precise than "in respect to."

  • Can "in respect to" be used in everyday conversation?

Yes, it can be used in everyday conversation to clarify what part of a topic you're talking about. However, simpler terms like "about" or "concerning" are often used in casual chats.

  • How do native speakers commonly use "in respect to"?

Native speakers often use "in respect to" when they want to focus on a specific part of a conversation or situation. It helps to add clarity and may be used in both casual and formal settings.

  • Does "in respect to" have any idiomatic or figurative uses?

No, "in respect to" is primarily used in a literal sense to specify a particular aspect or topic. It doesn't carry idiomatic or figurative meanings.

Final Thoughts About "In Respect To"

Understanding the phrase "in respect to" helps you follow discussions more closely and express yourself more clearly. It's especially useful when you want to zoom in on a certain part of a topic or issue.

Here's a quick recap:

  • "In respect to" helps focus a conversation on a specific area or topic.
  • It's often used in everyday and formal language, although more casual terms like "about" or "concerning" are usually preferred for informal situations.
  • The phrase doesn't imply importance or priority, just specificity.

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