WordGarden.ioappreciate
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /əprˈiːʃɪˌeɪt/
US
- /əˈpriʃiˌeɪt/
Meanings
Verb
to feel grateful for something or someone's help or effort
to understand or recognize the significance of something
to recognize and enjoy the good qualities of something
More meaningsFewer meanings
to increase in monetary value
Beyond the definition
To appreciate something isn't just about liking it—it's about recognizing its true value. You might appreciate a beautiful sunset, the kindness of a friend, or even a well-made cup of coffee. It means you understand the merit of something and are thankful for it. You can show appreciation with a thank-you note or a kind gesture, letting someone know you recognize and cherish them.
"Appreciate" also works as a polite way to ask for something or to respond warmly: "I'd appreciate it if you could email me the file," or "I really appreciate your help."
Finally, "appreciate" has a financial meaning: to increase in value. Imagine a rare painting appreciating over time; as demand grows, it becomes more valuable.
The word "appreciate" possesses a lovely richness. At its heart, it means to be grateful for something, recognizing its worth and enjoying it fully. Think of savoring a delicious meal—you appreciate the flavors, the preparation, and the experience as a whole. Or consider a friend who offers support during a difficult time; you appreciate their kindness. It's about acknowledging the good things in life, big or small.
However, "appreciate" also has a formal meaning related to value. In economics and finance, it means to increase in value over time. A house might appreciate due to improvements in the neighborhood, or an antique could appreciate as its rarity increases.
There is also a third, subtle nuance: to fully grasp the nature of a situation. When you say, "I appreciate the difficulties you are facing," you aren't expressing gratitude; you are indicating that you understand the situation clearly and sympathetically.
"Appreciate" can also soften requests and make them sound considerate rather than demanding. "I'd appreciate it if you could be on time" means "Please be on time," with an added layer of politeness and respect.
So, whether you're feeling thankful, noticing an investment (or currency) grow in value, or acknowledging a complex reality, "appreciate" speaks to recognizing true significance—both emotional and material.
Examples
- 1
Personal thanks
I really appreciate all your help this week.
- 2
Customer service
We appreciate your patience while we fix the problem.
- 3
Thanking actions
I appreciate you letting me know so early.
- Patternappreciate + person + -ing
be thankful that they did it
- 4
Polite request
I'd appreciate it if you could reply by Friday.
- UsageI'd appreciate it if...
a polite way to ask for something
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Art
You don't need to understand art history to appreciate this painting.
- 6
Realization
At first, I didn't appreciate how difficult the job would be.
- Patternappreciate how + clause
understand something fully
- 7
Difficult truth
She appreciated that he was trying to be honest, even if it was hard to hear.
- 8
Recognition
His work wasn't fully appreciated until after he retired.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- disregard
- take for granted
Used with (collocations)
- appreciate your help
- really appreciate
- appreciate the opportunity
- appreciate it
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- appreciateverb
Forms
- appreciatedpast tenseverb
- appreciatesverb
- appreciating-ing formverb