B2verb 2K

Acknowledge

UK //əkˈnɒlɪdʒ// US //ækˈnɑːlɪdʒ// Pronunciation

Definition

To accept or admit the existence or truth of something.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To accept or notice something.

Examples

• She didn't acknowledge my presence at the meeting.
• It's important to acknowledge your mistakes to learn from them.
• The company acknowledged the need for better security measures.
• Please acknowledge receipt of this email.
• He acknowledged her hard work with a formal letter of thanks.
• During the speech, she acknowledged the support of her family.

Usage notes

Use 'acknowledge' when formally recognizing someone's contribution or existence. Avoid in overly casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

acknowledge + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'ack now ledge' - imagine a person on a ledge needing recognition.

Collocations

• acknowledge receipt
• acknowledge contributions
• acknowledge existence

Synonyms

• recognize
• admit
• accept
• affirm
• confess

Antonyms

• deny
• ignore
• reject

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'recognize' - 'acknowledge' emphasizes recognition of existence or truth.
• Using incorrect prepositions, e.g., 'acknowledge to' instead of 'acknowledge'.