What’s the Difference Between Respectively and Respectfully?

Respectfully, the English language makes absolutely zero sense.

Just kidding.

But it can be confusing to make out what two words mean when they have the same root. In this case, the words in question are respectively and respectfully.

Let’s go over their meanings.

Respectively means “in the same order already mentioned.” Respectfully means “in a way that expresses respect or high regard.”

• Michael and Geoffrey are brothers. They are 13 and 15, respectively.
• He behaved respectfully when his grandparents were around.

“Respect” can function as a noun or verb and has multiple definitions.

What Does Respectively Mean?

Respectively is an adverb, which is a part of speech that modifies verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs. It means “separate or individually, in the order already stated.”

In the sentence above, respectively helps show that it is Ryan Gosling who is 41 years old and Ryan Reynolds who is 48.

Respectively helps keep sentences succinct. Without it, you’d have to write something like:

You can also write:

But you risk leaving the reader questioning which one is 41 and which one is 48.

Respectively can be found in the middle of a sentence (with or without a comma) or at the end of a sentence (always with a comma preceding it).

What Does Respectfully Mean?

Respectfully is also an adverb, but it means “in a way that shows respect.” Respect is a noun that means “a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something because of their good qualities or achievements.”

So, to behave respectfully means to behave in a way that conveys high regard or esteem.

Respectfully is often used to end formal letters (or emails). Be careful not to get confused with respectively.

Respectfully Yours, LanguageTool

There are many word pairs that are confusing for English learners and native speakers alike. Using LanguageTool as your spelling and grammar checker is an easy way to ensure that your writing is free from these types of mistakes. Plus, it can also check for grammar and punctuation errors, and can help rephrase your sentences to better suit your audience.