darse a respetar
Lemma Details
Translation: to make oneself respected; to command respect; to stand up for oneself
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This reflexive phrase combines 'dar' (to give) with 'respetar' (to respect). The reflexive 'darse' (to give oneself) plus the preposition 'a' creates the sense of dedicating oneself to an action. The construction literally means 'to give oneself to be respected' but functions idiomatically to express asserting one's dignity or demanding proper treatment from others.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Es importante darse a respetar en el trabajo desde el primer día.
It's important to command respect at work from day one.
Ella siempre se ha dado a respetar y por eso todos la tratan con consideración.
She has always made herself respected and that's why everyone treats her with consideration.
Si no te das a respetar, la gente te tratará mal.
If you don't stand up for yourself, people will treat you badly.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'giving yourself respect' as a way to remember the phrase structure
- Visualize someone standing tall with dignity to recall the meaning of commanding respect
- Connect 'dar' (give) with the idea of 'giving an impression' of someone who deserves respect
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is important in Hispanic cultures where personal dignity and respect (respeto) are highly valued. It reflects the cultural emphasis on maintaining one's honor and ensuring proper treatment from others. The concept is particularly relevant in professional settings and personal relationships where establishing boundaries is necessary.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'darse a respetar' means to make others respect you, 'darse respeto' would mean to respect oneself (though this is not a common phrase in Spanish).
Notes: 'Darse a respetar' is about establishing boundaries and commanding respect from others, while self-respect would typically be expressed as 'respetarse a sí mismo'.
Mnemonic: The 'a' in 'darse a respetar' points outward (to others respecting you), while its absence in 'darse respeto' would point inward (self-respect).
Explanation: The simple verb 'respetar' means 'to respect' (others), while 'darse a respetar' is reflexive and means making others respect you.
This word:
Necesitas darte a respetar en esta situación.
You need to stand up for yourself in this situation.
Notes: The reflexive construction with 'darse a' completely changes the direction of the action compared to the simple verb.
Mnemonic: Think of 'darse a respetar' as active (making others respect you) versus 'respetar' as passive (you respecting others).