admire
verb (transitive)
UKədˈmaɪ.ərUSədˈmaɪ.ɚ
to find someone or something attractive and have respect or approval for them
Example Sentences
I truly admire her dedication to helping underprivileged communities.
He couldn’t help but admire the intricate craftsmanship of the handmade violin.
Many students admire their mentor for her unwavering commitment to education and her willingness to provide personalized guidance for each of them.
Even as competitors, they both admire each other's sportsmanship and dedication.
Tourists flock to admire the cathedral’s stunning architecture and centuries-old stained glass windows.
The young artist came to admire the painter’s bold techniques, striving to recreate similar depth and vibrancy in her own work.
Over the years, I have come to admire his remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, as he consistently finds new ways to overcome obstacles and transform them into opportunities for personal growth.
Parents often admire their children’s curiosity and imagination, which reminds them how boundless the world can seem when viewed through fresh eyes, unburdened by adult anxieties and expectations.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
To regard someone or something with respect, approval, or heartfelt appreciation.“Admire” is a verb denoting respect, approval, or delight in someone’s or something’s qualities or accomplishments. You can admire a person for their virtues—like bravery, generosity, or brilliance—or appreciate the aesthetic value of an artwork. In a professional context, you might express admiration for a colleague’s work ethic or achievements, boosting morale and fostering a supportive atmosphere. Socially, you can tell a friend, “I really admire your creativity,” signaling genuine, positive recognition of their talent or skill.When employing “admire” in writing or speech, be direct about what you respect: “I admire her resilience in overcoming challenges.” This specificity clarifies what aspect stirs your esteem. The word itself carries a warm, affirmative tone, often implying sincere appreciation rather than flattery. You might also place it in contexts of inspirational figures—like historical heroes—or discuss how you aspire to emulate the traits you admire. Regardless of the setting, “admire” spotlights a sense of positive regard that can strengthen bonds, foster motivation, and celebrate commendable attributes.
Alternatives
If you’re seeking alternatives for “admire,” consider several nearby expressions that capture varying shades of esteem:1. **Respect** – Highlights deference toward someone’s abilities, rank, or values, emphasizing an ethical or moral dimension. 2. **Appreciate** – Conveys gratitude or recognition of worth, commonly used for skills, gestures, or contributions. 3. **Revere** – Suggests deep veneration or awe, typically reserved for figures of significant moral, historical, or cultural stature. 4. **Esteem** – Implies high regard for someone’s character or accomplishments, often formal or used in polite contexts. 5. **Praise** – Focuses on giving commendation for achievements or traits, sometimes leaning into public or vocal acclaim.6. **Look up to** – Reflects genuine admiration combined with a sense of learning or aspiring to a role model’s level.Each word has nuances. “Respect” may indicate strong moral acknowledgment, whereas “revere” borders on awe. “Appreciate” covers both gratitude and recognition of value. “Look up to” often mixes admiration with aspiration. Matching your choice to the depth and style of esteem ensures you convey the right sentiment, whether it’s casual approval or profound veneration. These synonyms all share the essence of recognizing and commending worth, yet each paints a slightly different emotional or situational context. Choose based on how formal, personal, or intense you want your expression of admiration to be.
Writing
When incorporating “admire” in writing, focus on clarity about what specifically evokes admiration. If you’re drafting a personal essay, you might open with a vivid anecdote illustrating the trait or deed you admire—like volunteering at animal shelters or standing up for someone being bullied. In business or academic documents, explaining what merits admiration—dedication, innovation, or integrity—adds substance, showing readers exactly why a person or concept deserves recognition.Use details or examples to make your admiration vivid: “I admire her thorough research methods; she cites an impressive range of peer-reviewed journals.” Such specificity clarifies your perspective, guiding the reader to understand your commendation. If you’re writing fiction, a character who admires someone might internalize that admiration in actions—emulating a mentor’s diligence or adopting similar values. Scenes or dialogue showing admiration, rather than merely stating it, makes the sentiment feel authentic. Whether in personal narratives, professional summaries, or creative texts, weaving in reasons behind admiration endows it with weight, authenticity, and narrative depth. Use “admire” sparingly yet strategically to underscore positive regard, and bolster the reader’s connection to the admired person or idea.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversations, “admire” allows you to share warmth, appreciation, and encouragement without sounding overly formal. Perhaps you’ll say, “I admire how you always stay calm under pressure,” highlighting a friend’s commendable trait. Or maybe, “I really admire your sense of style,” offering a quick compliment that feels genuine and personal.When you want to deepen connections, identify the specific reasons for your admiration—like pointing out someone’s determination or empathy. This not only flatters them but also fosters more honest rapport. If you sense someone has doubts about their abilities, gently stating, “I admire your progress—I can see how far you’ve come,” can boost their confidence. Using “admire” in casual settings nudges conversations toward gratitude and positive reinforcement, an uplifting shift from routine chatter. Keep it authentic; focusing on sincere praise ensures your remarks resonate as genuine and heartfelt. A little word like “admire,” used thoughtfully, can affirm important values and strengthen emotional ties among family, friends, or peers.
Etymology
“Admire” descends from the Latin “admirari,” formed by “ad-” (to) plus “mirari” (to wonder). In classical Rome, “mirari” conveyed surprise, awe, or wonder at something remarkable, while “admirari” sharpened that sense into strong approval or marveling. As the term threaded through Old French as “admirer,” it retained the spirit of gazing upon something with positive astonishment. By the time it entered Middle English, “admire” signaled both wonder and high regard. Throughout literary history, from Renaissance poetry to 19th-century novels, “admire” has described emotional, intellectual, and aesthetic esteem. It’s featured in reverent tributes to beauty, bravery, or moral excellence. Whether praising a painting’s grandeur or lauding an activist’s courage, the word has consistently highlighted a sense of respectful marvel. Modern usage still captures this original nuance—holding someone or something in high regard, tinged with delight or awe.
