appreciate

The word “appreciate” means to be grateful for something. In plain terms, to be thankful for something, to properly understand its value, or (for money/property) to grow in value.

“Appreciate” is pronounced uh-PREE-shee-ayt (/əˈpɹiː.ʃi.eɪt/ in IPA).

Here is “appreciate” used in a sentence: “I really appreciate your help with this.”

“Appreciate” is a verb.

The word “appreciate” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin appreciatus, "valued or appraised," from ad- + pretium, "price" — the same root as precious and appraise.

“Appreciate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Appreciate” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to be grateful for something.

They're very close and often interchangeable. 'Be grateful' points directly at thankfulness for a kindness or good fortune. 'Appreciate' adds a sense of recognizing something's value — you can appreciate a gesture, an effort, or a fine wine. In everyday use, 'I appreciate it' and 'I'm grateful for it' say nearly the same thing.

'Appreciate' has three main senses. It can mean to be grateful ('I appreciate your help'), to value or recognize the worth of something ('she appreciates good music'), and to rise in value over time ('the house appreciated'). It can also mean to understand fully, as in 'I appreciate the difficulty involved.'

The opposite depends on the sense. For gratitude, the reverse is to be ungrateful or to take something for granted. For valuing, opposites include to scorn, dismiss, or underrate. For rising in value, the opposite is 'depreciate' — to lose value over time, as a car does after purchase.

'Appreciate' is a warm, courteous way to express thanks. Common phrases include 'I really appreciate it,' 'I'd appreciate your help,' and 'much appreciated.' Adding it softens requests and acknowledges effort — 'I'd appreciate a reply by Friday' sounds more gracious than a blunt demand while still making the ask clear.