acknowledge
ac·knowl·edge
/ıkˈnɑːlıʤ/ verb , -edg·es, -edged, -edg·ing [ + obj ]
1 : to say that you accept or do not deny the truth or existence of (something) : admit
They acknowledged that the decision was a mistake.
Do you acknowledge that you caused this mess?
I acknowledge (the fact) that I hurt you, and for that I am sorry.
They readily/openly/grudgingly acknowledged their mistake.
She won't acknowledge responsibility for her actions.
He refuses to acknowledge the authority of the court. [=he denies that the court has authority]
2 : to regard or describe (someone or something) as having or deserving a particular status
They acknowledge him as their leader. = They acknowledge him to be their leader.
— usually used as (be) acknowledged
She is widely/generally acknowledged as one of the world's best chefs. [=many people regard her as one of the world's best chefs]
Her pastries are acknowledged to be the best.
This part of the city is acknowledged to have the best restaurants.
3 : to tell or show someone that something (such as a letter or message) has been received
He quickly acknowledges all of my e-mails when he receives them.
Please acknowledge receipt of this letter.
She acknowledged the gift with a card.
She acknowledged his greeting with a smile.
4 : to show that someone has been seen and recognized : to look at or talk to (someone)
She walked right by me without even acknowledging me.
The players acknowledged their fans by waving their hands and blowing kisses into the crowd.
He refuses to acknowledge her existence/presence.
5 : to express thanks or appreciation for (something or someone)
In their paper, they acknowledge the important work done by past scholars.
They acknowledge past scholars for the important work they have done.
acknowledged adj
the acknowledged leader of a political party
an acknowledged master of the art
