How to use "in that respect"

What Does "in that respect" Mean?

Grammatical function: It functions as a transitional phrase, indicating a specific point of comparison or a particular aspect being considered. It signals a limitation or specification to a previously stated idea, often implying a degree of similarity or connection between the two ideas.
Typical sentence position: Initial or medial.
Register: Neutral to formal.

How to Use It

Syntactic patterns: Typically followed by a comma and a clause that elaborates on the specific aspect being referenced. It usually follows a general statement that is then qualified or focused by the phrase.
Punctuation rules: Usually followed by a comma when it introduces a clause. If it's embedded within a clause, it's often set off by commas on both sides.
Grammatical flexibility: It can start a sentence or be placed mid-clause. It's not typically negated directly (e.g., "not in that respect").
What sounds unnatural or incorrect: Using it in very informal conversation can sound stilted. Also, using it to introduce a completely unrelated idea would be incorrect.

Real-World Examples

"In that respect he disappointed." — Independent

"In that respect, its appeal is academic." — The New York Times - Arts

"We're very lucky in that respect." — Independent

"In that respect, Chauvet was a bombshell." — The New Yorker

"Pakistan is remarkable in that respect." — The New Yorker

Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/in+that+respect

Similar Phrases and Alternatives

Phrase	Context
in this regard	More formal and often used in academic writing.
in this respect	Almost identical in meaning, but may sound slightly more common.
on this point	Emphasizes a specific argument or detail.
regarding this	Slightly more informal, suitable for business communication.
in terms of this	Focuses on a specific aspect or measurement.
from this angle	Suggests a specific viewpoint or perspective.
with regard to this	More formal and often used in legal or official contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using it in very informal contexts can sound unnatural or stilted.
Forgetting the comma after "in that respect" when it introduces a clause is a common punctuation error.
Learners often confuse it with similar phrases like "with respect to" or use it in inappropriate registers, such as very informal conversation.

Quick-Reference Summary

Expression	Function	Register	Typical Position
in that respect	Specifies a particular aspect or point of comparison	Neutral to formal	Initial or medial

FAQs

Where can "in that respect" be placed in a sentence?

In that respect can appear at the beginning of a sentence, followed by a comma. It can also be placed mid-clause, usually set off by commas. The placement affects the emphasis, with sentence-initial position providing more prominence to the connection being drawn.

How does "in that respect" differ from "with respect to"?

"In that respect" indicates a specific point or aspect being considered, highlighting a similarity or connection. "With respect to," on the other hand, is broader and introduces a topic or subject matter; it often implies a degree of deference or formality.

How can I avoid misusing "in that respect" in informal conversations?

To avoid sounding overly formal, consider using simpler alternatives like "in this way," "in this sense," or even just rephrasing the sentence. If the context is casual, more colloquial phrases might be more appropriate than "in that respect," which carries a certain level of formality.

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