verb
acknowledge
uhk-NOL-ihj
verb
1
To accept or admit that something is true.
"He finally acknowledged that he had made a mistake."
"The report acknowledges several weaknesses in the original plan."
2
To recognize someone or something formally, or to respond confirming receipt of something.
"She acknowledged his contribution during the awards speech."
"Please acknowledge receipt of this email."
How to Use Acknowledge
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo admit something is true, or to formally recognize someone/something (including confirming you received a message).
Common pairings
acknowledge a mistake
acknowledge receipt
acknowledge someone's help
Word Forms
acknowledged past tense, acknowledges singular
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Etymology
A blend of two Middle English verbs — one meaning "to recognize" and one meaning "to reveal or admit" — that merged into one word in the 1500s.