recognition - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
recognition Word Meanings
- the act of identifying or acknowledging something
- the state of being recognized or acknowledged
- appreciation or acceptance of someone's contributions
recognition Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
recognition Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌrɛkəɡˈnɪʃən/
US
/ˌrɛkəɡˈnɪʃən/
recognition Word Etymology
The word 'recognition' comes from the Latin 'recognitio', where 're-' means 'again' and 'cognitio' means 'knowledge'. A vivid image for this could be seeing an old friend after many years and realizing who they are again, sparking nostalgia.
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
First I move my eyes and slightly tilt my head, letting the room come into focus. A quick shift in attention makes a familiar face or sound begin to settle, and I push aside the doubt to see what is real. I hold my breath a moment, then adjust my stance as the memory rises and fits the moment like a missing piece snapping into place. The thing I recognize slips into view not as a rule, but as a quiet knowing that grows with practice and patience.
Real Context
Recognition is the act of identifying someone or something, and also the act of acknowledging a fact, achievement, or contribution. It covers recognizing a person in a crowd, or giving praise, formal acknowledgment, or official status. Learners often mix up recognition with realization or acknowledgment alone, and must pay attention to collocations to choose the right sense: recognizing a person, recognizing contributions, or recognition ceremonies. In everyday use you might hear about formal recognition at work or casual recognition from friends. Practice with different contexts to choose the correct level of formality and emphasis.
Usage Reminders
- Recognize vs realize; recognition of, recognition for; formal vs informal; collocations matter; use with ceremony or achievement; avoid overgeneralization
Common Misconceptions
- Recognition = realization
- You can always replace recognition with acknowledgement
- Recognition only means praise, not identification
- Recognition cannot be used with negative contexts
- Recognition is the same as familiarity
Thinking Differences
In English, recognition often splits between identifying someone (recognize a face) and valuing or praising a contribution (recognition for effort). Learners may overuse recognition to mean merely awareness, or confuse it with realization; focus on context and collocations like recognition of contributions or recognition ceremony.
Learning Tips
- Learn key collocations: recognition of, recognition for, recognition ceremony
- Practice distinguishing recognition vs realization
- Use examples from work, school, and social settings
- Tell and explain why someone deserves recognition
- Watch for formal vs casual registers
- Review common mistakes and self-correct
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'recognition'?
A.A punishment for failure.
B.To ignore or dismiss someone's efforts.
C.The act of identifying someone or something as already known.
D.The act of creating something new.
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'recognition' correctly?
A.He recognition the number of variables in the equation.
B.The cat climbed up the tree to seek recognition.
C.Her recognition was for her art, which was highly praised.
D.They made a recognition to meet at noon.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'recognition'?
A.Disregard
B.Acknowledgment
C.Neglect
D.Dismissal
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'recognition'?
A.Validation
B.Esteem
C.Oblivion
D.Honorship
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'recognition' is important?
A.Many students received their report cards last week.
B.The awards ceremony acknowledged the hard work of the volunteers.
C.He celebrated his birthday with friends and family.
D.The opening of the new store attracted a large crowd.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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