The Power of Esteem: Respect, Admiration, and Valuing Others
Explore the meaning and usage of the word ‘esteem’ – a term that captures the sentiment of respect, admiration, and valuing others. Learn how to use esteem correctly in your vocabulary and understand the difference between esteem and self-esteem.
Imagine walking into a room full of people you admire. How do you feel about them, and how do you hope they feel about you?
Today, we’re exploring a word that captures this sentiment perfectly: esteem.
Word type: Esteem can function as both a noun and a verb.
Meaning: As a noun, esteem refers to respect and admiration. As a verb, it means to respect and admire.
Word history: Esteem comes from the Latin word aestimare, meaning to value or estimate. It entered the English language in the sixteenth century through Middle French.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for esteem include respect, regard, admiration, appreciation, and reverence.
Antonyms: Antonyms of esteem include disrespect, contempt, disdain, and scorn.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how to use esteem in context.
As a noun: The scientist’s groundbreaking research earned her the esteem of her colleagues. As a verb: We esteem those who show kindness and integrity in their actions.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing esteem with self-esteem. While esteem generally refers to respect for others, self-esteem specifically relates to one’s own sense of worth.
Another error is using esteem interchangeably with estimate. Although they share a root, estimate relates to calculating or approximating, while esteem is about respect and admiration.
Mastering words like esteem can significantly boost your vocabulary and help you express complex ideas more precisely.
Remember, esteem is about valuing and respecting others or being valued and respected yourself. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be using this word with confidence in your GRE and beyond.
