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Recommendation

rek-uh-men-DAY-shun /ˌrɛkəˌmɛnˈdeɪʃən/

nounB2

formalacademic

A suggestion or proposal as to the best course of action, or a formal statement endorsing someone or something.

In college applications, it specifically refers to a 'letter of recommendation,' a written statement from a teacher or counselor assessing an applicant's qualities.

The story behind the word. The word 'recommendation' comes from the Latin verb commendare, meaning 'to commit to care, entrust.' It's formed from com- (an intensive prefix) and mandare ('to commit, entrust'). So, when someone recommends you, they are essentially 'entrusting' your character or abilities to the person or institution you're applying to, vouching for you.

Word relationships

Endorsement: emphasizes official support or approval
Reference: a person who can speak about your character or abilities, or the statement itself
Suggestion: more general and less formal

Criticism: negative evaluation
Condemnation: strong disapproval

Commonly confused with

Commendation: 'Recommendation' is an endorsement for a future purpose; 'commendation' is an official praise or award for past achievement.

Word family

Recommend (verb): to suggest or endorse
Recommendable (adjective): worthy of being recommended

Collocations

letter of recommendation
strong recommendation
academic recommendation
personal recommendation
make a recommendation
follow a recommendation

Example sentences

"A strong letter of recommendation from her chemistry teacher highlighted her research potential." College application context.
"The committee's recommendation was to invest in renewable energy sources." Formal suggestion.
"Many universities require at least two academic recommendations from high school faculty." Specific requirement.

Memory hook

A RECOMMENDATION is a REALLY COMMENDED statement about you. Commend and recommend.

When not to use

Don't use 'recommendation' when you mean a simple suggestion for a product or service. It implies a more formal and significant endorsement in academic/professional contexts.

Fun facts

In some cultures, personal recommendations are more important than formal qualifications.
Many online application systems now allow recommenders to submit their letters directly and confidentially.

Related words

Application, Essay, Transcript

Explore more words

reference, endorse, proposal, commend, endorsement, Nomination