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Acknowledge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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acknowledge

[ษ™kหˆnษ’lษชdส’ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

formal

Accept or admit the existence or truth of. Show that one has noticed or recognized (someone) by making a gesture or greeting.

Synonyms

accept, admit, recognize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
acknowledge

Used when referring to admitting or showing awareness of something. Often formal or used in situations where one must recognize a fact or an achievement.

  • She acknowledged his hard work during the meeting.
  • The government acknowledged the need for reform.
admit

Used when confessing to something, often involving reluctance or guilt. Can have a negative connotation.

  • He admitted that he was wrong about the project.
  • She admitted to leaving the door unlocked.
accept

Used when consenting to receive or agree to something, often implying a final decision or agreement.

  • He accepted the job offer without hesitation.
  • We need to accept the terms and conditions before proceeding.
recognize

Used when identifying something or someone from prior knowledge or when formally acknowledging someone's status or rights.

  • I recognized him from the conference last year.
  • The committee recognized her contributions to the field.

Examples of usage

  • She refused to acknowledge the new chairman
  • he did not acknowledge my greeting
Context #2 | Verb

formal

Express gratitude or appreciation for or to.

Synonyms

appreciate, recognize, thank.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
acknowledge

Use when formally accepting the existence or truth of something. Often seen in legal or professional settings.

  • I acknowledge your hard work on this project.
  • The company needs to acknowledge its responsibility in this matter.
appreciate

Used to express gratitude or to value something highly; often personal and emotional.

  • I really appreciate your help with the move.
  • She appreciates the support from her friends during tough times.
thank

Directly expresses gratitude to someone. Commonly used in everyday interactions.

  • Thank you for your assistance.
  • I want to thank everyone who contributed to this report.
recognize

Used to identify someone or something from having encountered them before or to formally acknowledge the existence or validity of something.

  • I recognize her from the conference last year.
  • It's important to recognize the achievements of our employees.

Examples of usage

  • she would like to acknowledge the work of the charity staff
  • he acknowledged the applause with a smile
Context #3 | Verb

formal

To show that one has read or received (a message or communication)

Synonyms

confirm, receipt, respond.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
acknowledge

Used to show that you have received or noticed something. Often used in formal writing and communication.

  • We acknowledge receipt of your letter
  • She acknowledged the compliment with a smile
confirm

Used to affirm or validate something that has been agreed upon or is expected. Commonly used in formal and official documents.

  • Please confirm your attendance by Friday
  • He confirmed that the meeting would take place at 3 PM
respond

Used when you are replying to a question, request, or communication. Can be formal or informal depending on the context.

  • She didn't respond to my text
  • Please respond to this email as soon as possible
receipt

Primarily used as a noun to indicate that something has been received. It commonly appears in business or formal transactions.

  • You will receive an email receipt once your payment is processed
  • Receipt of the package was confirmed

Examples of usage

  • Please acknowledge receipt of this letter
  • He acknowledged the email with a quick response

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Acknowledgment can enhance social bonds by showing appreciation and validation to others.
  • Research indicates that being acknowledged positively affects self-esteem and mental well-being.
  • The act of acknowledging someone helps to build trust in relationships, whether personal or professional.

Communication

  • In conversation, acknowledging refers to the act of responding to someone, showing you are engaged.
  • Using phrases like 'I understand' or 'I hear you' helps to foster open and healthy dialogue.
  • Effective acknowledgment in communication can reduce misunderstandings and resolve conflicts.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often feature themes of acknowledgment, highlighting moments of recognition in relationships.
  • Famous figures often use public platforms to acknowledge contributions of others in their success stories.
  • In literature, characters frequently undergo journeys of self-acknowledgment that lead to personal growth.

Origin of 'acknowledge'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'oncnฤwan,' which means 'to recognize or admit.'
  • Rooted in the 15th century, it evolved from 'know' and 'to make known.'
  • The prefix 'ac-' implies a connection, while 'knowledge' shows understanding.

The word 'acknowledge' originated from the Old English word 'oncnฤwan' which meant 'to recognize'. It has evolved over time to its current usage in the English language. The concept of acknowledging something or someone has always been important in human interaction, showing respect, gratitude, or acceptance. The word has been used in various contexts throughout history, emphasizing the significance of recognizing the existence, truth, or efforts of others.

See also: acknowledged, acknowledgement, acknowledging, acknowledgingly, acknowledgment, unacknowledged, unacknowledging.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,162, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.