recognize

[ˈrekəɡnaɪz]

recognize Definition

• 1. to know someone or something because you have seen or experienced him or her or it before
• 2. to accept that something is legal, true, or important
• 3. to 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

Synonyms for recognize

• identify
• acknowledge
• admit
• realize
• perceive

Antonyms for recognize

• disavow
• disclaim
• ignore

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.

• recognize the handwriting on the wall

  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.

• recognize the need for something

  to understand and accept that something is necessary

  Example

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

• recognize one's mistake

  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.