What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reverencing
Example
The students were reverencing their teacher as she entered the classroom. [reverencing: verb]
Example
The ceremony was filled with reverencing speeches and rituals. [reverencing: gerund or present participle]
respecting
Example
I have great respect for my parents and their hard work. [respect: noun]
Example
We should respect each other's differences and opinions. [respect: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Respect is a more common and widely used term than reverence in everyday language. Respect is a fundamental value in personal and social relationships, while reverence is less common and often reserved for special or sacred contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reverencing and respecting?
Reverencing is a more formal and elevated term than respecting, which can be used in various contexts and levels of formality, from informal to formal.