Recommend Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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recommend

[หŒrษ›kษ™หˆmษ›nd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

advice

To suggest or endorse something as the best option or course of action.

Synonyms

advise, endorse, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recommend

Use this word when you want to express a strong and positive opinion about something or someone. It's often used in professional settings such as job references, product reviews, or doctor visits.

  • I highly recommend this restaurant for its excellent service
  • My doctor recommended that I take a daily vitamin supplement
suggest

This word is more casual and often used when offering an idea or option without strong insistence. It's suitable for everyday conversation and informal settings.

  • I suggest we go for a hike this weekend
  • She suggested trying the new cafรฉ downtown
advise

This word is used when you are giving someone guidance or offering an opinion, often based on expertise or knowledge. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts but is somewhat formal.

  • The lawyer advised his client to settle the case
  • She advised me to save a portion of my income every month
endorse

Typically used in formal or commercial settings, this word means to publicly support or approve of something, such as a product or candidate. It often implies a level of authority or influence.

  • Celebrities often endorse various brands of products
  • The organization endorsed the new policy for environmental protection

Examples of usage

  • He recommended a good book to me.
  • I would recommend trying the new restaurant in town.
  • She recommended that we leave early to avoid traffic.
Context #2 | Verb

formal letter

To formally commend someone to another as being worthy or desirable.

Synonyms

commend, endorse, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recommend

When suggesting someone or something as suitable or beneficial for a particular purpose or situation.

  • I recommend visiting the new restaurant downtown; the food is amazing.
  • The doctor recommended rest and plenty of fluids.
commend

When praising or expressing approval of someone or something, often formally or publicly.

  • The teacher commended the students for their excellent performance in the exam.
  • She was commended for her courage during the rescue mission.
endorse

When publicly or officially supporting or approving someone or something, often in a promotional or authoritative capacity.

  • The celebrity endorsed the new line of skincare products.
  • Several organizations endorsed the candidate for the upcoming election.
support

When providing assistance or backing for someone or something, often emotionally, financially, or with encouragement.

  • She supported her friend through a tough time.
  • The charity supports disadvantaged children by providing education and basic needs.

Examples of usage

  • The professor recommended her student for a scholarship.
  • The manager recommended the employee for a promotion.
Context #3 | Verb

medical

To prescribe or suggest a course of treatment or action.

Synonyms

advise, prescribe, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recommend

Use when giving a suggestion based on knowledge or experience. It's often used in both informal and formal situations when sharing what you think is good or suitable.

  • I recommend trying the pasta at this restaurant.
  • Doctors recommend getting eight hours of sleep each night.
prescribe

Mainly used in medical contexts when a doctor or qualified professional tells you that you should take a certain medicine or follow a specific treatment.

  • The doctor prescribed antibiotics for my infection.
  • She was prescribed a stronger dose of painkillers.
suggest

Often used in informal and casual contexts to put forward an idea or plan for others to consider. It can be less assertive than 'recommend'.

  • Can you suggest a good book for me to read?
  • He suggested going for a walk after dinner.
advise

Typically used when giving guidance or offering a more serious or professional opinion, often with a sense of authority or expertise.

  • I advise you to discuss this matter with your lawyer.
  • Teachers often advise students to start studying early for exams.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor recommended rest and plenty of fluids.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Humans often feel more inclined to trust recommendations from friends or family than from advertisements.
  • Social proof suggests that when people see others enjoying something, they are more likely to try it themselves.
  • Psychologically, receiving a recommendation can make a person feel valued and understood, fostering a sense of community.

Literature

  • In literature, characters may often recommend books, places, or ideas, highlighting their values and relationships.
  • Famous literary works often include passages where characters discuss recommendations, underscoring their cultural relevance.
  • The concept of recommendation can lead to pivotal plot developments, influencing characters' journeys.

Pop Culture

  • Movie critic reviews are a modern form of recommendations, influencing public interest and ticket sales.
  • In the digital age, platforms like Yelp or Rotten Tomatoes allow users to share and seek recommendations easily.
  • Social media has transformed the way recommendations spread, often leading to viral trends based on user suggestions.

Education

  • Teachers often recommend books or resources to guide students in their learning journey.
  • In higher education, letters of recommendation are crucial for students applying to universities or jobs.
  • Peer recommendations can enhance a studentโ€™s learning experience by fostering collaborative growth.

Origin of 'recommend'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'recommendare', which means 'to commend' or 'to entrust.'
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, retaining its meaning of suggesting favorably.
  • The prefix 're-' in Latin means 'again,' while 'commend' refers to praise, creating the idea of praising again.

The word 'recommend' originated from the Latin word 'recommendare', which means 'to commit to someone's care'. Over time, the word evolved to its current usage in English, where it signifies suggesting or endorsing something as favorable or beneficial. The concept of recommending has been prevalent in human interactions throughout history, as people have always sought guidance and advice from others.


See also: recommendation, recommendations, recommended.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,002, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.