With All Due Respect: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
November 4, 2023

"With all due respect" is a phrase used to disagree with someone politely or express a contrary opinion. It is often followed by a "but" or a "however" that introduces the opposing point of view. The phrase implies that the speaker respects the person they are addressing but does not agree with their statement or decision.

In short:

  • "With all due respect" means "I respect you, but I disagree with you."
  • It is used to politely express a different opinion or perspective.

What Does "With All Due Respect" Mean?

The phrase "with all due respect" shows courtesy and deference to someone, especially someone with authority or seniority, while disagreeing with or criticizing them. It is often used in formal or professional settings, such as debates, arguments, or negotiations. The phrase suggests that the speaker acknowledges the other person's position or status but does not share their opinion or judgment.

Some related expressions that have a similar meaning are:

  • I beg to differ
  • No offense, but
  • With the utmost respect
  • With all due consideration
  • I don't mean to be rude, but

Where Does "With All Due Respect" Come From?

The origin of the phrase "with all due respect" is not clear, but it may have been derived from the Latin expression "cum omni reverentia," which means "with all reverence" or "with all respect." Ancient Roman writers and speakers used this expression to show deference and humility to their superiors or elders while expressing their opinions or arguments.

10 Examples of "With All Due Respect" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

  • With all due respect, your idea needs more refinement.
  • I really appreciate your input, but with all due respect, I disagree.
  • With all due respect, your performance could use improvement.
  • With all due respect, your statement seems misleading.
  • I hear your opinion, but with all due respect, I think it's misguided.
  • With all due respect, your decision was ill-advised.
  • I value your experience, but with all due respect, I have a different perspective.
  • With all due respect, that argument doesn't hold up.
  • With all due respect, your approach seems impractical.
  • I understand your concerns, but with all due respect, I believe we should proceed differently.

Examples of "With All Due Respect" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has been used in various forms of pop culture:

  • Nikki R. Haley's memoir "With All Due Respect: Defending America With Grit and Grace" discusses her political career and views.
  • Dennis DeYoung's song "With All Due Respect" includes the lyrics: "With all due respect, you make me sick." The song criticizes various societal issues.
  • "With All Due Respect" on Bloomberg is a political analysis show. The show delves into various political topics and discussions.
  • Moncrieff's song "With All Due Respect" contains the lyrics: "With all due respect, I don't respect you at all."
  • An episode of "City So Real" titled "With All Due Respect to the Candidate" focuses on political candidates in Chicago.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "With All Due Respect"

Some different ways to say "with all due respect" are:

  • With all due courtesy
  • With all due regard
  • With all due admiration
  • With all due esteem
  • With all due appreciation
  • With all due honor

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "With All Due Respect"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

  • What does "with all due respect" mean?

"With all due respect" is a phrase used to disagree with someone politely or express a contrary opinion. The phrase implies that the speaker respects the person they are addressing but does not agree with their statement or decision.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "with all due respect"?

The origin of the phrase "with all due respect" is not clear, but it may have been derived from the Latin expression "cum omni reverentia," which means "with all reverence" or "with all respect."

  • Is "with all due respect" rude?

It depends on the context and tone of voice. Sometimes, the phrase can be used sincerely and politely to show respect and courtesy to someone while disagreeing with them. However, the phrase can sometimes be used sarcastically or ironically to imply that the speaker does not respect the person they are addressing. The phrase can also be seen as a passive-aggressive way of criticizing or insulting someone without being direct or aggressive.

  • What is the difference between "with all due respect" and "with respect"?

The difference between "with all due respect" and "with respect" is subtle but may imply a different degree of respect or disagreement. The phrase "with all due respect" may suggest that the speaker respects the person they are addressing as much as possible but still disagrees with them strongly. The phrase "with respect" may indicate that the speaker respects the person they are addressing but disagrees with them on a specific point or issue.

  • What is the opposite of "with all due respect"?

The opposite of "with all due respect" is a phrase that shows disrespect or contempt for someone while agreeing with or praising them. Some examples are "with no disrespect," "with no regard," "with no consideration," "with no admiration," and "with no esteem.

  • Can you use "with all due respect" in a positive way?

Yes, you can use "with all due respect" positively if you genuinely respect and appreciate the person you are addressing and are not trying to contradict or criticize them. For example, you can use the phrase to compliment someone, to express gratitude, or to show admiration.

  • What is the tone of "with all due respect"?

The tone of "with all due respect" can vary depending on the speaker's context and intention. Sometimes, the tone can be polite and respectful if the speaker is sincerely showing deference and courtesy to someone while disagreeing with them. Sometimes, the tone can be sarcastic or ironic if the speaker implies that they do not respect the person they are addressing. Sometimes, the tone can be passive-aggressive or aggressive if the speaker uses the phrase to criticize or insult someone without being direct or blunt.

  • What is the purpose of "with all due respect"?

The purpose of "with all due respect" is to show courtesy and deference to someone, especially someone with authority or seniority, while disagreeing with or criticizing them. The phrase can also soften the impact of a negative or controversial statement or avoid offending or hurting someone's feelings.

  • Is "with all due respect" always followed by a disagreement or criticism?

Not necessarily. It's often used before offering a differing viewpoint or criticism, but it can also be used to soften any potentially confrontational statement.

  • Does "with all due respect" negate the criticism that follows it?

No, it doesn't negate the criticism but softens its impact by acknowledging the other person's position.

Final Thoughts About "With All Due Respect"

"With all due respect" is a common and valuable idiom that can help you express your opinions or arguments politely and respectfully. However, you should also be aware of the possible implications and interpretations of the phrase, depending on the context and tone of voice.

Here are some key points to remember about this idiom:

  • It means, "I respect you but disagree with you."
  • It can be used sincerely or sarcastically.
  • It can be seen as polite or rude.
  • It can have different variations and synonyms.
  • It can have different translations and equivalents in other languages.

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