What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deference
Example
The employee showed deference to his boss by always addressing him as 'sir'. [deference: noun]
Example
I deferred to my friend's choice of restaurant since it was her birthday. [deferred: past tense verb]
respect
Example
I have a lot of respect for my grandmother because of all the challenges she has overcome. [respect: noun]
Example
It's important to respect other people's opinions, even if we don't agree with them. [respect: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Respect is more commonly used than deference in everyday language. Respect is a fundamental value that is emphasized in many cultures and societies, while deference is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deference and respect?
Both deference and respect can be used in formal and informal contexts, but deference may be more associated with formal or traditional settings where hierarchy and authority are emphasized.
