Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[meirain01]

what is the difference between" respectable" and "respected"? Can I use "respectable" in front of "friends"?

[CP]

Respected means looked upon with respect. Respectable means generally worthy of respect.

Clergymen have a respectable job and are generally respected in the community. But when they do something evil, like molest children, they lose all respect and themselves are no longer respectable.

Your friend may not look respectable because of his hair and clothing, but he could be a very honorable person, whom you respect very much.
_________________
You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb