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With two I’m affirmative
With three I’m respectful
With four I’m more respectful
With all five I’m either loved or hated
But when I’m loved, I kill; and when I’m hated, I may save lives.

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  • 1
    $\begingroup$ Is this a new form of riddle? Or have you seen this before? $\endgroup$ – Gustavo Gabriel Apr 16 '18 at 19:16
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    $\begingroup$ I made this up myself, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this form has already been made. $\endgroup$ – tyobrien Apr 16 '18 at 20:04
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    $\begingroup$ Wow, well done, very nice form! I might steal this template to make future riddles xD $\endgroup$ – Gustavo Gabriel Apr 16 '18 at 20:13
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My guess is

siren

With two I'm affirmative

'si', which is Spanish for "yes".

With three I'm respectful

'sir', a respectful greeting.

With four I'm more respectful

'sire', a respectful title.

With all five I’m either loved or hated

But when I’m loved, I kill; and when I’m hated, I may save lives.

Sirens that were 'loved' led sailors to their deaths. Although they are an annoying noise, their sound means that help is on the way and lives may be saved.

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    $\begingroup$ You got it! I was thinking that the sound of a siren means you’re getting pulled over, but it’s for public safety. But your explanation works too. :) $\endgroup$ – tyobrien Apr 16 '18 at 19:10
  • $\begingroup$ Actually, two requires an accent. $\endgroup$ – jpmc26 Apr 17 '18 at 3:25
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    $\begingroup$ @jpmc26 Anyway, two means "yes" also in French, without accent. $\endgroup$ – iFlo Apr 17 '18 at 7:26

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