farsi rispettare

Italian

Etymology

Literally, “to make oneself respected”.

Verb

fàrsi rispettare (first-person singular present mi fàccio rispettare, first-person singular past historic mi féci rispettare, past participle fàtto rispettare, first-person singular imperfect mi facévo rispettare, second-person singular imperative fàtti rispettare)

1. (idiomatic) to not allow disrespectful acts to one's detriment; to assert one's dignity and authority; to win or command respect
   • 2020 October 8, Anna Lombardi, “Kamala Harris contro Mike Pence: il dibattito. Scontro su Covid e tasse. Harris ribatte tre volte a Pence che la interrompe: "Ora sto parlando io" [Kamala Harris against Mike Pence: the debate. Clash on Covid and taxes. Harris retorts three times to Pence when he interrupts her: "I am speaking now"]”, in la Repubblica‎^[1]:

     Riesce però a farsi rispettare. Con ferma gentilezza si riprende la parola: "Adesso tocca a me".

     She manages, however, to command respect. With firm gentleness she takes back the floor: "Now it is my turn".