Do respect vs. due respect
Writing for Business
Which is correct?
With all ________ to large vendors, startups and small businesses are more likely to innovate.
a. do respect
b. due respect
Answer: b.
Explanation:
With due respect is an acknowledgement of the respect that the entity deserves — all the respect that is due (owed) to them. The phrase is used to soften a negative statement, such as a criticism or an unfavorable comparison.
I came across a few references online to “do respect” meaning “showing respect through actions” and “do diligence” meaning “diligence in actions.”
“I remember that this phrase used to be kicked around quite a lot. “Do” diligence was to invest totally into the task at hand. At least that is the way I heard it used growing up and applied it myself.”
That’s a reasonable assumption to make if you hear “do diligence” and consider the definition. However “due diligence” means the diligence that should be applied, such as the degree of effort required by regulation.
Paul Brians list of common errors includes “do respect.”