ganarse el respeto
Lemma Details
Translation: to earn respect; to gain respect; to win respect
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'ganar' (to win/earn) in its reflexive form 'ganarse' with 'el respeto' (respect). 'Ganar' comes from Germanic 'waidanjan' (to hunt, forage), which entered Spanish through Vulgar Latin 'guadagnare'. 'Respeto' derives from Latin 'respectus' (regard, consideration), from 're-' (back) + 'specere' (to look at). The reflexive construction emphasizes that respect is something one must actively work to acquire for oneself.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Se ganó el respeto de sus compañeros por su honestidad.
He earned the respect of his colleagues through his honesty.
Para ganarse el respeto en este trabajo, hay que ser puntual y responsable.
To earn respect in this job, you need to be punctual and responsible.
Con el tiempo, me gané el respeto de toda la comunidad.
Over time, I earned the respect of the entire community.
No es fácil ganarse el respeto de los demás.
It's not easy to earn the respect of others.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'gain + respect' - you have to gain (ganar) respect through your actions.
- Visualize climbing a mountain (gaining elevation) to reach respect at the top.
- Remember that the reflexive 'se' in 'ganarse' emphasizes that you're earning something for yourself.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, respect (respeto) is a fundamental social value. 'Ganarse el respeto' reflects the cultural understanding that respect is not automatically given but must be earned through actions, integrity, and character. This concept is particularly important in professional environments and community settings.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Ganarse el respeto' uses the reflexive form to emphasize personal effort and achievement, while 'ganar respeto' is a more general, less emphatic form.
Confused word:
Es importante ganar respeto en cualquier profesión.
It's important to gain respect in any profession.
Notes: The reflexive form adds emphasis on personal achievement and effort.
Mnemonic: The 'se' in 'ganarse' is like saying 'for oneself' - you're earning respect for yourself specifically.
Explanation: 'Ganarse el respeto' means to earn others' respect, while 'respetar' means to respect or show respect to someone else.
Notes: These concepts are complementary - by respecting others (respetar), you often earn their respect (ganarse el respeto).
Mnemonic: 'Ganarse el respeto' is about receiving respect; 'respetar' is about giving respect.