admire - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
admire Word Meanings
- to regard with wonder or approval
- to have a high opinion of someone or something
- to marvel at the beauty or skill of someone or something
admire Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
admire Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ədˈmaɪə/
US
/ədˈmaɪr/
admire Word Etymology
admire = ad- (to) + mire (wonder). Origin: Latin admirări → Old French admirier → English admire. Picture a person standing in awe, looking at a beautiful work of art, feeling a sense of wonder and appreciation.
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 move my attention from the page to a glint of light on the scene. I shift my gaze, adjust my posture, and hold the moment as if I'm weighing its worth. The moment changes as I decide to keep following the small details, the skill and care that show up in every move. I realize I admire how they kept their focus, how effort and craft show through, and I feel a warm pull toward recognizing what stands out.
Real Context
Admire means to regard with wonder or approval; to have a high opinion of someone or something; to marvel at the beauty or skill of someone or something. It signals a positive appraisal that is more than simple liking but not as intense as loving or adoring. In English you can admire a person for courage, a work of art for its craftsmanship, or a performance for its precision. The etymology traces to ad- (to) and mire (wonder), via Latin admirări and Old French admirier. Learners often mix it with respect or adore, or forget to use the correct prepositions when giving reasons.
Usage Reminders
- Admire someone for their courage
- Admire the craftsmanship of the sculpture
- Admire a person’s talent without assuming personal affection
- Use 'admire' for skill, virtue, or beauty, not romantic love
- Consider prepositions: 'admire for' introduces the reason
Common Misconceptions
- Admire ≠ adore or worship; it's positive but cooler
- Admire someone for X, not 'admire someone X' without context
- Don't confuse with 'respect' when praising moral or ethical traits
- Use 'admire for' to state the reason (e. g., admire for courage)
- Can be used for things you don't know personally
Thinking Differences
Think of admire as a warm, respectful appraisal of quality or achievement, not an emotional pledge. Learners often equate it with love or intense adoration and may struggle with when to use for/of or the right object.
Learning Tips
- Create 6 new sentences using admire for different objects (people, art, performance)
- Pair with for to show reason (admire for courage)
- Compare with related verbs: respect, adore, love
- Listen for intonation when expressing admiration
- Practice varying intensity: admire vs greatly admire
- Use examples from news or art to see context
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which of the following words is the opposite of 'admire'?
A.Praise
B.Love
C.Hate
D.Respect
Step 2: Usage
Choose the synonym for 'admire'.
A.Cherish
B.Appreciate
C.Dislike
D.Detest
Step 3: Similar Words
In what context would you use the word 'admire'?
A.Talking about someone you dislike
B.Complaining about a situation
C.Discussing a boring topic
D.Expressing respect for someone's achievements
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which of the following situations would make you admire someone?
A.Showing kindness and generosity
B.Being selfish and unhelpful
C.Being rude and disrespectful
D.Ignoring others' feelings
Step 5: Mastery
Explain a real-life scenario where you would use the word 'admire'.
A.Visiting an art gallery and admiring the paintings
B.Watching a movie you dislike
C.Doing chores at home
D.Ignoring someone's hard work
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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