acknowledge - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
acknowledge Word Meanings
- to admit the existence or truth of something
- to recognize someone or something
- to express gratitude or recognition
acknowledge Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
acknowledge Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əkˈnɒlɪdʒ/
US
/əkˈnɑːlɪdʒ/
acknowledge Word Etymology
acknowledge = ac- (to) + know (to know) + ledge (to make known). Origin: Old English "oncnawan" → Latin "agnoscere" → Old French "acquerre" → English. Imagine a person nodding at someone and saying, 'I see you and I know you are there!'
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I tilt my head and move my eyes toward the speaker. The moment shifts as I hear the facts and feel doubt loosen its grip. I nod, hold the beat a fraction longer, and adjust my posture to show I’m listening. In everyday talk or at work, I acknowledge what I’ve heard by naming it or saying thank you, letting the truth settle in.
Real Context
Acknowledge is a formal, versatile verb with three main senses: to admit the existence or truth of something; to recognize someone or something, especially their contributions or rights; and to express gratitude or recognition. In many contexts it appears in reports, official communications, or polite discourse, often followed by a that-clause, a noun phrase, or the phrase receipt of. It sits between plain recognition (recognize) and more emotional thanks (thank). Learners often confuse it with admit (which has a stronger sense of fault) or with recognize in casual speech, leading to over-formality or awkward phrasing in everyday talk.
Usage Reminders
- - Use acknowledge for formal or neutral recognition
- - Pair with that-clause when stating a belief or fact
- - Use acknowledge receipt of with documents or goods
- - Reserve acknowledge for recognition, not casual thanks
- - Do not confuse with admit unless you mean admitting a fact or fault
Common Misconceptions
- Think it always means saying sorry or admitting fault
- Confuse with 'recognize' in casual contexts
- Ignore that it can mean 'thank' in formal acknowledgments
- Use after a noun without a that-clause where one is needed
- Assume it's interchangeable with 'agree' in every case
Thinking Differences
English tends to split emphasis among admitting facts, recognizing people, and expressing thanks; learners often merge these into one generic phrase, losing nuance.
Learning Tips
- Note the common collocations: acknowledge the receipt of, acknowledge that
- Use in formal writing contexts
- Differentiate from admit (fault) and thank (gratitude)
- Practice with reports and emails
- Compare with recognize in everyday situations
- Watch for noun forms: acknowledgement/acknowledgment
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'acknowledge' correctly?
A.He refused to acknowledge his mistake.
B.She acknowledged her cat with a loud bark.
C.The teacher acknowledged the answer by clapping.
D.They acknowledged the book with a dance.
Step 3: Similar Words
What word is most similar to 'acknowledge'?
A.Recognize
B.Ignore
C.Forget
D.Laugh
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'acknowledge'?
A.Reject
B.Deny
C.Accept
D.Enjoy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'acknowledge'?
A.She ignored the customer's complaint completely.
B.The manager acknowledged the hard work of the employee.
C.He laughed at the idea presented in the meeting.
D.They forgot to respond to the email.
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