admire

The word “admire” means to regard someone or something with respect and approval. In plain terms, to think highly of someone or something, often with a touch of wonder.

“Admire” is pronounced uhd-MEYE-uh (/ədˈmaɪɹ/ in IPA).

Here is “admire” used in a sentence: “I really admire how calmly she handled the situation.”

“Admire” is a verb.

The word “admire” comes from Latin. From Latin admirari, "to wonder at," from ad- ("toward") plus mirari ("to marvel, be amazed").

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

To "respect" someone is to hold them in high regard, often for their abilities, position, or rights. To "admire" adds a warmer note of approval and pleasure, so you look up to them and are pleased by what they do. You can respect a rival without admiring them, but admiration usually includes respect.

"Admire" means to regard someone or something with respect and approval, keeping a note of judgement. "Adore" is much stronger and more emotional, meaning to love deeply or worship. You might admire a colleague's work but adore a close family member.

To "admire" someone is to appreciate them with approval and goodwill. To "envy" them is to want something they have, often with a tinge of resentment. Admiration is generous and positive, while envy centres on your own longing for what another person possesses.

You usually admire someone "for" a particular quality, as in "I admire her for her patience." You can also admire someone or something directly without a preposition, as in "they admired the view." The standard pattern is "admire someone for something."