recognize

To know who someone is or what something is because you have seen, heard, or met them before.

• I recognize that song.
• She recognized her old teacher immediately.
• Did you recognize anyone in the photo?

How to use it: recognize someone/something by something (I recognized her by her voice.)

Similar words: identify, know

Common phrases: recognize someone, recognize a voice, recognize a face

To understand and accept that something is true or important.

• We recognize the problem.
• He recognized that he needed help.
• Do they recognize the importance of this work?

How to use it: recognize that… (We recognize that the plan needs more work.)

Similar words: acknowledge, accept, admit

Opposites: deny

Common phrases: recognize a problem, recognize the need, recognize the importance

To publicly thank or praise someone for their work or achievements, often by giving an award.

• The award recognizes her hard work.
• They recognized volunteers at the annual dinner.
• He was recognized for thirty years of service.

How to use it: recognize someone for something (The school recognized her for her work with young children.); recognize someone with something (They recognized his service with a special award.)

Similar words: honor, commend

Common phrases: recognize someone's achievements, recognize outstanding service, recognize someone's contribution

To officially accept that something exists, is legal, or has a right to be considered.

• The law recognizes their rights.
• Several countries recognized the new government.
• Is this qualification recognized abroad?

How to use it: recognize someone/something as something (The government recognized the island as an independent state.)

Similar words: acknowledge, accept

Opposites: reject

Common phrases: recognize a country, recognize someone's rights, recognize a qualification