What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cognize
Example
I could cognize the beauty of the sunset as I watched it from the beach. [cognize: verb]
Example
She had difficulty cognizing the complex concepts in the science textbook. [cognizing: gerund or present participle]
recognize
Example
I recognized my old friend from high school when I saw her at the party. [recognize: verb]
Example
He couldn't recognize the song playing on the radio, even though he had heard it before. [recognize: verb]
Example
After studying for hours, she finally recognized the importance of time management in achieving her goals. [recognize: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recognize is more commonly used than cognize in everyday language. Recognize is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cognize is less common and may sound more formal or technical.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cognize and recognize?
While cognize may sound more formal or technical, recognize is more commonly used and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
