ihtarama
to respect
احترم (ihtarama) is a regular Arabic verb meaning 'to respect' or 'to honor.' It expresses the act of showing regard, esteem, or consideration toward a person, their opinions, or their position. This verb is fundamental in Arabic culture, where respect for elders, authority, and others' boundaries is highly valued.
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احترمت آراء والديّ وأخذت نصيحتهما.
ihtaramtu āra' wālidayya wa-akhdhtu nasīhatahuma.
I respected my parents' opinions and took their advice.
يجب أن نحترم معلمينا لأنهم يعلموننا.
Yajib an nahtarima mu'allimīnā li-annahum yu'allimūnā.
We must respect our teachers because they teach us.
احترمت حدود صديقي وعدم انتهاك خصوصيته.
ihtaramtu hudūd sadīqī wa-'adam intihāk khususiyyatih.
I respected my friend's boundaries and did not violate his privacy.
المعلم احترم طلابه رغم اختلافهم.
Al-mu'allim ihtarma talābah raghma ikhtilāfihim.
The teacher respected his students despite their differences.
نحترم القوانين والأنظمة في المجتمع.
Nahtarmu al-qawānīn wa-al-antima fi al-mujtama'.
We respect the laws and regulations in society.
In Arab culture, respect (احترام) is a cornerstone of social relationships and is deeply embedded in Islamic teachings about honoring parents, teachers, and elders. The concept extends beyond individuals to encompassing respect for customs, traditions, and societal norms. Using this verb demonstrates cultural awareness and adherence to Arab values of dignity and honor.
احترم is conjugated like regular -م verbs in Arabic. Remember it often takes a direct object (the person or thing being respected), and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal writing or speech, you'll often see it in phrases beginning with 'يجب أن نحترم' (we must respect), making it useful for expressing social and ethical obligations.
The Arabic verb احترم (ihtarama) is one of the most important verbs in the Arabic language, expressing the concept of showing respect, honor, and consideration toward others. This verb is central to Arabic social etiquette and Islamic teachings, making it essential for learners to master.
احترم fundamentally means 'to respect' or 'to honor.' It conveys the action of treating someone or something with dignity, consideration, and esteem. The word encompasses both the physical actions and mental attitudes associated with showing respect. In Arabic culture, respect is not merely a polite gesture but a fundamental value that governs interpersonal relationships.
احترم is a regular -م verb (Group II), and it follows standard conjugation patterns:
Past Tense (Perfect):
Present Tense (Imperfect):
The verb احترم is used in various contexts:
Personal Relationships: Expressing respect for family members, friends, and colleagues. Example: "احترمت آراء والديّ" (I respected my parents' opinions)
Social Settings: Showing respect in educational, professional, and community contexts. Example: "يجب أن نحترم معلمينا" (We must respect our teachers)
Rules and Boundaries: Honoring laws, regulations, and personal boundaries. Example: "احترمت خصوصيته" (I respected his privacy)
In Arab and Islamic culture, respect is elevated to a moral and religious principle. The Quran and Hadith emphasize respecting parents, teachers, scholars, and authorities. The concept of احترام extends to respecting:
This cultural emphasis makes the verb احترم particularly common in formal speech, religious discourse, and social instruction.
When learning احترم, remember:
Mastering احترم opens doors to understanding Arab social values and expressing yourself authentically in Arabic. Whether discussing family relationships, workplace dynamics, or social responsibilities, this verb is indispensable for fluent and culturally appropriate communication in Arabic.