To acknowledge something is to admit that it is true or real. It can also mean to recognize someone’s effort, presence, or importance.
Developed in Middle English from 'know' with prefixes and suffixes, influenced by phrases like 'to make known'. The spelling reflects older forms like 'aknowlechen'.
To acknowledge is basically to say, 'I see this, and I won’t pretend it’s invisible.' That’s why a small acknowledgment—like saying 'you’re right' or 'I see your point'—can feel so powerful.
Acknowledgment of women’s and marginalized groups’ contributions has often been delayed or omitted, both in formal credits and historical narratives. Movements for citation justice and inclusive acknowledgments seek to correct these omissions.
Use 'acknowledge' to explicitly credit contributions from people of all genders, especially where they have been historically overlooked.
["recognize","credit","admit"]
When writing acknowledgments or histories, consciously include women and gender minorities whose labor and ideas made projects possible.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.