commend
kuh-MEND
/kəˈmɛnd/
To praise formally or officially; to present as suitable for approval or attention.
Implies a structured, professional, or official recognition of merit rather than a purely emotional outburst of praise.
The story behind the word. Coming from the Latin intensive prefix 'com-' and 'mandare' (to entrust), 'commend' originally meant to formally commit someone or something to another's care. Over time, because you only entrust valuable things to others, the word evolved to mean praising someone as worthy of trust and respect.
Word relationships
- praise: Praise is more general and can be casual, whereas commend is formal and often official.
- applaud: Applaud can be literal clapping or figurative praise, while commend is strictly verbal or written recognition.
- criticize: To point out faults, whereas commend points out merits.
- condemn: To express complete disapproval, which is the direct opposite of formal praise.
Commonly confused with
- condemn: Condemn means to express strong disapproval, while commend means to express formal praise.
Word family
- commendation (noun): An award or official statement of praise.
- commendable (adjective): Deserving of praise.
Collocations
- highly commend
- commend someone for
- commend to someone's care
Example sentences
- "We must commend the officers for their swift and decisive actions during the crisis." A formal military report recognizing outstanding service.
- "I highly commend this candidate for her exceptional leadership and dedication." A professional recommendation letter.
Memory hook
Think of 'recommend'. When you recommend a friend for a job, you commend their skills to the employer. Commend = Commit to praise.
When not to use
Do not use for casual, everyday compliments like praising someone's outfit; use 'compliment' instead.
Fun facts
- In old legal English, 'to commend' meant to hand over property to a lord for protection, showing how deeply rooted the word is in trust and safety.
Related words
Explore more words
commendation, compliment, endorse, complimentary, commemorate, commission
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