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Definitions

recognize

[rek-uhg-nahyz] / ˈrɛk əgˌnaɪz /
VERB
identify
Synonyms
STRONGEST
admit know make note notice observe perceive remember see
STRONG
descry diagnose distinguish espy finger nail peg pinpoint place recall recollect remark sight spot tag verify
WEAK
be familiar button down determinate diagnosticate flash on know again make out ring a bell tab
Antonyms
STRONGEST
deny forget ignore misinterpret miss misunderstand neglect overlook refuse
STRONG
lose unfasten
WEAK
disapprove
VERB
acknowledge, understand;
Synonyms
STRONGEST
admit agree allow appreciate grant honor make perceive realize respect sanction see
STRONG
assent avow comprehend concede confess greet own salute
WEAK
approve accept be aware of
Antonyms
STRONGEST
condemn deny disallow disapprove dispute disrespect dissent fail ignore lose neglect overlook prevent protest refuse reject veto
STRONG
disagree disavow disown repudiate
WEAK
miss misunderstand

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s a zero-sum game for filmmakers and viewers alike, who would both do well to recognize the inherent value in surprise.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

Lerosey-Aubril - who is also French - and Ortega-Hernández selected the name to recognize Cousteau's efforts to highlight the beauty and vulnerability of marine life.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

“It’s funny, ‘cause I’ve had people recognize me, but majority of the time, their mindsets are on real estate.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Peet connected to the unease of not knowing how to recognize when one has become a has-been and staying open to whatever life still has to offer.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

It took a second for him to recognize me.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.