B1verb1K

Appreciate

UK /["/əˈpriːʃieɪt/","/əˈpriːʃieɪts/","/əˈpriːʃieɪtɪd/","/əˈpriːʃieɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/əˈpriːʃieɪt/","/əˈpriːʃieɪts/","/əˈpriːʃieɪtɪd/","/əˈpriːʃieɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to recognize the good qualities of somebody/something

In simple words: To recognize the value or importance of something.

Examples

  • I really appreciate your help with the project.
  • She appreciated the beautiful sunset as she sat on the beach.
  • Do you appreciate the efforts that have gone into this presentation?
  • He couldn't appreciate the complexity of the situation at first.
  • The artist hoped that people would appreciate her work.

Usage notes

This word is often used in both formal and informal contexts when expressing gratitude or recognizing someone's efforts. It is less commonly used in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

appreciate + object

Memory hint

Think of 'a-pricier' — when you appreciate something, you see its value and think it deserves a higher price.

Collocations

  • really
  • truly
  • fully
  • deeply
  • genuinely
  • greatly
  • fully
  • totally
  • easily
  • fail to
  • be generally appreciated
  • be widely appreciated

Synonyms

  • realize

Antonyms

  • disregard
  • devalue
  • neglect

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'apriciate', a non-existent word.
  • Using 'appreciate' without an object (e.g., 'I appreciate' should be followed by what is appreciated).
  • Misusing 'appreciate' in negative contexts (e.g., 'I don't appreciate your help' can sound rude).