Someone asked me if I respected him. I couldnt answer; what is respect anyway?

I thought of the phrase "respecting other people's choices". Is respecting someone just allowing them to do what they want? I mean ya sure but completely without caring?

I'm confused on how anyone can respect and care at the same time in moderate.

Well, at least I know someone who says I love you and totally doesnt care about anything about you. I doubt thats love though. I may not know how to respect and care for someone but I certainly know you cant love someone without caring for them.