I commemorate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I commemorate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing the act of honoring or remembering someone or something significant, often in a formal or ceremonial context. Example: "Every year, I commemorate the sacrifices made by our veterans on Memorial Day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This is the spirit in which I commemorate Groundhog Day: celebrating America's devotion to science, not just superstition.

The Washington Post

If I go outside, should I commemorate the event by taking a picture of myself in some bushes?

The New Yorker

"I just tried to do my best, to play for Madrid, to score goals, but I didn't commemorate because I think it's not fair, not respect if I commemorate".

Independent

For me, I mourn invasion and the suffering that followed, I commemorate our survivals and pride as Indigenous people, I honour my family and I acknowledge what is extraordinary about this country – our grit, our open heartedness, our generosity, our democracy, and I ask, how can we be better?

The Guardian - Opinion

Dear Vicers, Each week I scour the comments sections looking for the dumbest of the dumb, and then I commemorate them with little cartoons that I draw.

Vice

It is with great pride that I commemorate the dedication of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and commend the black pioneers of the past, present and future for their leadership, and steadfast courage.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

I commemorated his name in blood.

Independent

There Attalus I commemorated his victory over the Gauls with a huge monumental group on a circular base.

Britannica

I commemorated the moment the only way I knew how: with an anatomically correct heart plush toy from the hospital gift shop.

The New York Times - Health

I'm a Jew, and along with my friends (Jewish and not), I commemorated Hanukkah this year with a rotating party -- held at a different home each of the eight nights and consisting of sharing our varying interpretations of the Hanukkah story and family latke recipes, crafting our own menorahs, singing and eating very well.

The New York Times

On Monday, I commemorated the Dr. Martin Luther King holiday by attending the rally/protest in front of the New York Post corporate headquarters on 47th and Avenue of The Americas.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I commemorate" when you want to express a sense of respect and formal remembrance. It is often appropriate for anniversaries, historical events, or significant achievements.

Common error

Avoid using "I commemorate" in casual contexts. It can sound overly formal when simpler phrases like "I remember" or "I celebrate" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I commemorate" functions as a declarative statement, expressing the speaker's intentional act of remembering and honoring something significant. It highlights a conscious effort to recognize and pay tribute, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I commemorate" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, albeit somewhat uncommon. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to formally acknowledge and honor significant events or people. The examples provided show that it's often found in news articles, business communication and encyclopedias. Given its formal tone, it is best used in situations where a solemn and respectful remembrance is appropriate. Consider alternatives like "I honor" or "I remember" for less formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I honor

Focuses on respect and admiration, shifting the emphasis from formal remembrance to personal regard.

I celebrate

Emphasizes joy and festivity, differing in tone from solemn remembrance.

I remember

Highlights recollection and thoughtfulness, less formal than commemoration.

I pay tribute to

Formally expresses respect and gratitude.

I observe

Suggests a more passive recognition or acknowledgement.

I memorialize

Highlights creation of lasting memory.

I mark

Indicates recognition of an event or milestone.

I dedicate

Implies a formal commitment or setting aside for a specific purpose in remembrance.

I acknowledge

Highlights recognition and acceptance, less focused on celebration or mourning.

I recognize

Emphasizes the act of noticing or becoming aware of something significant.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I commemorate"?

You can use alternatives like "I honor", "I celebrate", or "I remember" depending on the context.

How do I use "I commemorate" in a sentence?

Use "I commemorate" when you want to formally acknowledge and remember a significant event or person. For example, "I commemorate the sacrifices made by our ancestors."

Is "I commemorate" appropriate for informal situations?

No, "I commemorate" is generally too formal for informal situations. Use simpler phrases like "I remember" or "I'm celebrating" instead.

What is the difference between "I commemorate" and "I celebrate"?

"I commemorate" suggests a more solemn and respectful remembrance, while "I celebrate" implies joy and festivity. The choice depends on the tone you wish to convey.