recognize Definition
- 1to know someone or something because you have seen or experienced him or her or it before
- 2to accept that something is legal, true, or important
- 3to show respect for someone or something
Using recognize: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "recognize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I recognized her voice on the phone immediately.
Example
The government has refused to recognize the newly formed state.
Example
We should recognize the hard work of our employees.
Example
He was recognized for his contributions to the field of science.
Example
I didn't recognize you without your glasses.
recognize Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using recognize
to see and accept someone or something as they really are, without trying to change them or make them something else
Example
She recognized him for what he was - a liar and a cheat.
to see and understand that something bad is going to happen in the future
Example
The company recognized the handwriting on the wall and started laying off employees to cut costs.
to see similarities between oneself and someone or something else
Example
She recognized herself in the character of the book and felt a deep connection to the story.
Phrases with recognize
to see and acknowledge someone's ability to do something well in the future
Example
The coach recognized her potential as a swimmer and encouraged her to train harder.
Example
The company recognized the need for more diversity in their workforce.
Example
He recognized his mistake and apologized for his behavior.
Origins of recognize
from Old French 'reconois-', stem of 'reconoistre', from Latin 'recognoscere', from 're-' (again) + 'cognoscere' (to get to know)
Summary: recognize in Brief
To 'recognize' [ˈrekəɡnaɪz] is to identify someone or something based on prior experience, accept the legality or importance of something, or show respect. Examples include 'I recognized her voice on the phone immediately,' 'The government has refused to recognize the newly formed state,' and 'We should recognize the hard work of our employees.' Phrases like 'recognize someone's potential' and idioms like 'recognize the handwriting on the wall' extend the meaning of 'recognize' to seeing potential or anticipating negative outcomes.