acknowledge

Universal Words verb admit 1 to accept that sth is true: [VN] She refuses to acknowledge the need for reform. * Are you prepared to acknowledge your responsibility? * a generally acknowledged fact * [Vthat] I did not acknowledge that he had done anything wrong. * [VNtoinf] It is generally acknowledged to be true. [also V-ing] accept status 2 ~ sb/sth (as sth) to accept that sb/sth has a particular authority or status SYNRECOGNIZE: [VN] The country acknowledged his claim to the throne. * [VN, VNtoinf] He is widely acknowledged as the best player in the world. * He is widely acknowledged to be the best player in the world. reply to letter 3 [VN] to tell sb that you have received sth that they sent to you: All applications will be acknowledged. * Please acknowledge receipt of this letter. smile / wave 4 [VN] to show that you have noticed sb/sth by smiling, waving, etc: I was standing right next to her, but she didn't even acknowledge me. * He waved, acknowledging the applause. express thanks 5 [VN] to publicly express thanks for help you have been given: I gratefully acknowledge financial support from several local businesses. * He is always ready to acknowledge his debt to his teachers.