Reading Theme:
Acknowledge: Definition, Usage & Examples (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：recognize as true (acknowledge)
acknowledge
/əkˈnɒlɪdʒ/
v.
To say or show that you know something is true, or that you accept it.
recognize as true
➕
/ˈrɛkəɡnaɪz æz truː/
v.
To openly accept or admit that something is a fact or is true, often after initial reluctance or denial.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'oncnawan' (recognize) influenced by 'knowledge'. Means 'to bring into knowledge'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'A Knowledge Edge' – you gain the edge by openly accepting or recognizing facts.
📖 Example
After reviewing the evidence, the company had to acknowledge that there was a mistake in their product design.
After reviewing the evidence, the company had to recognize as true that there was a mistake in their product design.
🔗 Collocations
publicly acknowledge – to admit something openly to everyone
grudgingly acknowledge – to admit something reluctantly or unwillingly
ackledge a fact – to accept that a specific piece of information is true
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
acknowledgement (n.) – the act of admitting or recognizing something
📖 Cultural Story
In legal and business contexts, 'acknowledge' is crucial. Signing a document 'acknowledged before me' by a notary public makes it legally binding, showing its formal, official role beyond casual admission.
Meaning 2：express gratitude for (acknowledge)
acknowledge
/əkˈnɒlɪdʒ/
v.
To show that you are grateful for someone's help or are aware of their presence.
express gratitude for
➕
/ɪkˈsprɛs ˈɡrætɪtjuːd fɔː/
v.
To show appreciation or recognition for someone's effort, help, or presence, often publicly.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
At the end of her speech, she paused to acknowledge the hard work of the entire team.
At the end of her speech, she paused to express gratitude for the hard work of the entire team.
🔗 Collocations
acknowledge applause – to show you are aware of and thankful for the audience's clapping
acknowledge someone's contribution – to publicly recognize and thank someone for their work
graciously acknowledge – to accept thanks or praise in a polite and kind manner
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
ignore (v.) – to deliberately pay no attention to someone or something
🌱 Derivatives
acknowledgement (n.) – a statement or action that expresses thanks or recognition
Meaning 3：confirm receipt of (acknowledge)
acknowledge
/əkˈnɒlɪdʒ/
v.
To tell someone that you have received something they sent you.
confirm receipt of
➕
/kənˈfɜːm rɪˈsiːt ɒv/
v.
To formally inform the sender that their message, document, or item has been received.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Please acknowledge this email so I know you have received the updated schedule.
Please confirm receipt of this email so I know you have received the updated schedule.
🔗 Collocations
acknowledge receipt – to formally confirm that you have received something
acknowledge an order – to notify a customer that their purchase order has been received
🔄 Synonyms
confirm (v.) – to state or show that something is definitely true or has been received
🚫 Antonyms
ignore (v.) – to deliberately pay no attention to a message or delivery
🌱 Derivatives
acknowledgement (n.) – a formal notification sent to confirm that something has been received
Wordbook
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