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recognize

[ˈrekəɡnaɪz]

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

Antonyms for recognize

Idioms Using recognize

  • recognize someone/something for what they/it are/is

    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.

  • recognize oneself in someone/something

    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

  • recognize someone's potential

    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.

  • to understand and accept that something is necessary

    Example

    The company recognized the need for more diversity in their workforce.

  • to admit that one has done something wrong

    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)

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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.

How do native speakers use this expression?