disrespectful

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌdɪsˈrɛspɛktfəl/

KK: /dɪsˈrɛspɛktfəl/

adjective

Definition

Showing a lack of respect; being rude or impolite to someone.

Example

It is disrespectful to interrupt someone while they are speaking.

Conversation

Did you hear how he talked to her yesterday?

Yeah, that was really disrespectful of him.

I can't believe he thought that was okay.

Right? He really needs to learn some manners.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

rude

impolite

insolent

Antonyms

respectful

courteous

polite

Root Explanation

Disrespectful → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "respect" (from Latin "respectus", meaning regard or consideration) and the suffix "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "disrespectful" means full of a lack of regard or consideration for others.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'apart' ('dis-') from 'regard' ('respect') — that's why disrespectful means lacking respect.

Visually Confused Words

irrespectful