B1verb1K

Admire

UK /["/ədˈmaɪə(r)/","/ədˈmaɪəz/","/ədˈmaɪəd/","/ədˈmaɪərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ədˈmaɪər/","/ədˈmaɪərz/","/ədˈmaɪərd/","/ədˈmaɪərɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to respect somebody for what they have done or to respect their qualities

In simple words: To think highly of someone or something and appreciate their qualities.

Examples

I really admire her dedication to her work.
Many tourists come to admire the stunning architecture of the city.
He admires his grandfather for his life experiences.
Children often admire superheroes for their bravery.
I admire the way she handles difficult situations with grace.

Usage notes

Use 'admire' when you want to express respect or approval for someone or something. It is appropriate in both spoken and written English, but might come across as less common in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

admire + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'add mire' — imagine adding mud to something beautiful, which you wouldn't want to do because you admire it.

Collocations

deeply
enormously
greatly
have to
about
for
be generally admired
be widely admired
can’t help admiring
pause to
stop to
stand back to

Synonyms

appreciate
revere
esteem
respect
venerate

Antonyms

despise
disdain
scorn

Common mistakes

Confused with 'admiration' as a verb.
Incorrectly using 'admire' without an object.
Using 'admire' inappropriately in casual contexts.