尊重

そんちょう

respect, esteem, regard

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Usage of 尊重

The verb 尊重 (zūnzhòng) means 'to respect' or 'to esteem' and is commonly used to express regard for people, opinions, traditions, or privacy. It carries a polite and formal tone, often used in both spoken and written Chinese.

Common contexts

尊重 is frequently used when talking about respecting others' views, cultural traditions, or personal boundaries. For example, 尊重意见 (respect opinions) and 尊重隐私 (respect privacy) are common collocations.

Collocations and patterns

  • 尊重别人 (respect others): emphasizes interpersonal respect.
  • 尊重传统 (respect traditions): used in cultural or social contexts.
  • 尊重隐私 (respect privacy): common in personal or legal contexts.

Nuances

Using 尊重 implies a conscious and deliberate attitude of valuing or esteeming something or someone. It is stronger and more formal than simply liking or accepting. Avoid confusing 尊重 with 喜欢 (to like) or 认可 (to approve), as 尊重 focuses on respect and honor.

Summary

When you use 尊重, you show a respectful attitude that acknowledges the importance or dignity of the person or thing. It is a key word in polite conversation and formal writing about social values and relationships.

Example Sentences

We should respect everyone's opinions, and even if we disagree, we should

Respecting elders is a very important tradition in Chinese culture.

He respects others' privacy very much and never casually asks personal