adjective
Uncommon
acknowledging
Acknowledging (adjective) means recognizing or admitting something, often with a nod or gesture. Example: “He gave an acknowledging nod as she walked in.”
adjective
1
Recognizing or admitting something, often with a nod or gesture.
"He gave an acknowledging nod as she walked in."
"She gave him an acknowledging glance across the crowded room."
"The driver raised an acknowledging hand to thank the cyclist."
How to use acknowledging
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishShowing recognition of something or someone.
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Word forms
- Plural
- acknowledgings
- Comparative
- more acknowledging
- Superlative
- most acknowledging
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He gave an _____ nod as she walked in.
Etymology
Formed from acknowledge and -ing.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for acknowledging
See all rhymes for acknowledging →Frequently asked questions
What does “acknowledging” mean?
The word “acknowledging” means recognizing or admitting something, often with a nod or gesture. In plain terms, showing recognition of something or someone.
How do you use “acknowledging” in a sentence?
Here is “acknowledging” used in a sentence: “He gave an acknowledging nod as she walked in.”
What part of speech is “acknowledging”?
“Acknowledging” is an adjective.
Is “acknowledging” a common word?
“Acknowledging” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "acknowledging" and "acknowledged"?
"Acknowledging" describes the ongoing act of recognizing or admitting something, as in "an acknowledging nod," while "acknowledged" describes something that has already been recognized or accepted, as in "an acknowledged expert." The first is active and present-focused; the second describes a settled, completed state.
Does "acknowledging" always involve a physical gesture like a nod?
Not necessarily. Although it is often used to describe a nod or similar gesture, "acknowledging" can equally describe recognizing or admitting something in speech, such as an acknowledging remark that concedes a point is true.
Is "acknowledging" more commonly used as an adjective or as part of a verb form?
It appears far more often as the present participle of the verb "acknowledge," as in "acknowledging the mistake," than as a standalone adjective describing a gesture or expression.
