verb

recognize

REHK-uhg-nyz

verb

To identify someone or something as already known from a previous encounter.

"I almost didn't recognize her with short hair."

"Do you recognize this song?"

To formally acknowledge someone or something as valid, true, or deserving.

"The UN refused to recognize the new government."

"Her contribution to the project was finally recognized with an award."

How to Use Recognize

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo identify something as familiar, or to officially accept/acknowledge it.

UK vs US

American spelling; British English often uses "recognise."

Common pairings

recognize a face recognize an achievement officially recognize

recognized past tense, recognized past tense, recognizes singular, recognizes singular

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Can you complete this real example?

I almost didn't _____ her with short hair.

From Old French reconoistre, from Latin recognoscere ("to know again"), from re- + cognoscere ("to learn, get to know").

size maize prize Belize utilize capsize realize baptize idolize colonize memorize organize