What is acknowledge? Pronunciation and usage in English

acknowledge means . Learn how to pronounce and use acknowledge through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of acknowledge

acknowledgeverb

/əkˈnɒlɪdʒ/
Definition & pronunciation of acknowledge

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "acknowledge" in English. It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is divided into three syllables: ak-now-ledge

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • ak: Pronounced like "ack" – a short, crisp sound, almost like you're saying "uh" quickly.
  • now: Pronounced like "now" – as in, a time of day.
  • ledge: This is the trickiest part! It’s pronounced with a "дж" (дж) sound, which is a sound that doesn't exist in many languages. It’s a slight 'j' sound, but it's a bit further back in your mouth and slightly more rounded. Think of it as almost like you’re saying "led" but forcing your tongue a little further back and rounding your lips slightly. You can also think of it as a very slight "dzh" sound.

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly at first: “Ack-now-ledge”

Then, work on getting that "дж" sound right in the “ledge” part.

4. Resources for Hearing it:

  • Google Translate: Type "acknowledge" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. (https://translate.google.com/)
  • Forvo: This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers. https://forvo.com/word/acknowledge/
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce acknowledge" on YouTube to find videos demonstrating the correct pronunciation.

Tips:

  • Listen and Repeat: The best way to learn is to listen to native speakers and then repeat after them.
  • Don’t Over-Stress: While you want to pronounce each syllable clearly, avoid stressing the word too much. It should flow naturally.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some more tips for mastering the "дж" sound?

Usage and examples with the word acknowledge in English

Let's break down how to use the word "acknowledge" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, so understanding those will help you use it correctly.

1. Core Meaning: To Recognize Something

At its simplest, "acknowledge" means to recognize or admit the existence or truth of something.

  • Example: “I acknowledge that I made a mistake.” (You admit you did something wrong.)
  • Example: “The company acknowledges the concerns of its customers.” (They recognize and understand the customers' worries.)

2. Formal Use: To Officially Recognize or Respond

This is a more formal way to use “acknowledge,” often found in professional communications (emails, letters, official documents). It means to formally respond to something.

  • Example (Email): “Please acknowledge receipt of this email by replying to this message.” (You're asking them to confirm they received it.)
  • Example (Letter): “We acknowledge your application and will contact you shortly.” (You're confirming you received their application and will take action.)
  • Example (Business context): "The board acknowledges the audit committee's findings." (The board formally recognizes and accepts the audit committee's report.)

3. To Show Gratitude / Thank You

“Acknowledge” can also be used as a more formal alternative to “thank you.”

  • Example: “I acknowledge your assistance with this project.” (A more polite and formal way of saying “Thank you for your help.”)
  • Example: "He acknowledged the support of his team." (Acknowledging their support – a way to say ‘Thank you, team!’)

4. Figurative Use: To Recognize or Accept a Situation or Fact

Sometimes, "acknowledge" is used to express acceptance of something difficult or unpleasant.

  • Example: "She reluctantly acknowledged the reality of her situation.” (She admitted to the unfortunate truth.)

Here’s a table summarizing the uses:

Use Meaning Example
Basic Recognize, admit "I acknowledge that it was cold."
Formal (Reply) Officially respond, confirm receipt “Please acknowledge receipt by replying.”
Formal (Gratitude) Offer formal thanks “I acknowledge your contribution.”
Figurative Accept a difficult reality "He acknowledged his loss."

Key Differences & Synonyms:

  • Acknowledge is generally more formal than “thank you” or “recognize.”
  • Recognize is often a closer synonym for the basic meaning of “acknowledge.”
  • Accept can be used in similar situations, especially when dealing with a difficult situation.
  • Confirm is often used in the context of receiving something (like an email).

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me tailor my explanation even better, could you tell me:

  • In what context are you planning to use the word "acknowledge"? (e.g., email, essay, conversation?)

Synonyms for the word acknowledge

Comment ()