Which word is a synonym for esteem?

• A. High regard
• B. Admire
• C. Respect
• D. Value

Answer: (C)

Esteem means holding someone in high regard, valuing them, and showing respect for them. The term that fits this sense most directly is respect, because to esteem someone is essentially to regard them with respect. You can say you esteem a person, and you can also say you respect a person in the same sense.

High regard conveys the same idea but is a two-word phrase rather than a single word. Admire is related but focuses more on admiring a quality or achievement rather than the overall regard you have for the person. Value emphasizes worth or usefulness, which can apply broadly and isn’t as precise for expressing regard toward a person.