recommend - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
recommend Word Meanings
- to suggest something as being good or suitable
- to endorse someone or something
- to mention someone or something favorably
recommend Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
- I recommend this book.
- Can you recommend a good movie?
- She recommends the new restaurant.
- I recommend taking a walk.
- He recommends studying every day.
recommend Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌrɛkəˈmɛnd/
US
/ˌrɛkəˈmɛnd/
recommend Word Etymology
re- = again + commend = praise. Historical origin: Latin 'commendare' → Old French 'recommander' → English 'recommend'. Memory image: Picture a person enthusiastically pointing out a restaurant to a friend, saying 'You have to try this!'.
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 settle my weight, lean in, and turn toward my friend. I push a suggestion forward, then I watch their eyes shift as they weigh it. It feels like a small effort, and I adjust the tone and timing as I go. In use, I might recommend a place, a book, or a plan, letting the choice grow from what we share.
Real Context
Recommend means to suggest something as good or suitable, to endorse someone or something, or to mention someone favorably. It is transitive: you recommend a product, a service, a place, or a person for a job or a role. In everyday use you can say I recommend this book, I recommend that you try the pasta, or I recommend this restaurant to you. The sentence structure often hinges on who is being advised and to whom, and you may also use a gerund form like recommending trying it. The memory image is a friend praising a restaurant with a confident gesture and the line You have to try this!
Usage Reminders
- Use a direct object after recommend; you can also use a that-clause or a gerund; specify who is being recommended and to whom; avoid passive constructions where you would rather use an active form; distinguish recommend from advise or insist; remember a historical context and related words.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing recommend with advise or insist.
- Assuming you always use to + person (I recommend you to...).
- Thinking recommend requires formal context only.
- Using recommend to mean order or compel.
- Mistaking recommend for praise-only without implying a choice.
Thinking Differences
English tends to frame recommendations as direct, explicit statements about value, with clear recipients. Learners often slip into advice or orders or misplace the indirect object when using to/for someone.
Learning Tips
- Create 3 personal sentences using recommend with different recipients.
- Note the difference between recommend and advise.
- Practice with both that-clauses and gerunds.
- Record common collocations like recommend to someone/something to someone.
- Use memory image to solidify the concept.
- Read product and film reviews to see natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'recommend' mean?
A.To suggest something as suitable, beneficial, or worth doing
B.To force someone to accept something against their will
C.To refuse or reject an offer
D.To describe something in great detail
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'recommend' correctly?
A.Please recommend this package is heavier than the others.
B.She recommend to the museum yesterday.
C.I recommend the new Italian restaurant; the pasta is excellent.
D.He recommend the sky was cloudy.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'recommend'?
A.suggest
B.demand
C.ignore
D.criticize
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'recommend'?
A.discourage
B.endorse
C.suggest
D.praise
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where one might use this word aloud? (Choose the best scenario)
A.Telling a friend which doctor to see for a persistent cough
B.Counting coins to check how much money is left
C.Describing the exact steps in solving a geometry proof
D.Noting the shades of color in a painting
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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