I must acknowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

"I must acknowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to express recognition or appreciation of something or someone. For example, "I must acknowledge my colleague's hard work in completing the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Accordingly, the buck stops with me and I must acknowledge responsibility by standing aside," Agius said.

The Guardian - Business

We decided to split the check, which, I must acknowledge, was a big turn-off.

The New York Times

Even Fox News', Chris Wallace — no Hannity he, I must acknowledge — isn't buying it.

The New Yorker

But as I prepare to step down in September, I must acknowledge that there has been little real progress on this issue.

The New York Times

The book begins with a modest self-introduction from its narrator: "My personal appearance, I must acknowledge, is not prepossessing, as I resemble a Scotch bagpipe in form".

The New Yorker

I must acknowledge, however, that the thought of what must come was a most unpleasant one, and I will describe what happened as briefly as possible.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

I agree with that, but I also must acknowledge something else: at that time, there were no people with higher degrees and there were no academic schools or departments.

HuffPost

I also must acknowledge Tony Kushner who, from the beginning, has shown tremendous understanding and enthusiasm for this endeavor to honor my brother.

Columbia University

After years of observations, I unfortunately must acknowledge that the EB-5 program has in some ways drifted off course.

Forbes

"Although I wish it were different, I think we must acknowledge that most congregations have more older people than younger, and most young people simply do not see the relevance of God, of Jesus, of the church, to their lives.

BBC

I realize this is like saying, "We have green houseplants". But I suppose one must acknowledge that there are different shades of green.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I must acknowledge", ensure that the reason for acknowledgment is clear and specific. This provides context and emphasizes the importance of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "I must acknowledge" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted in such situations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "I have to admit" or "I should mention".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I must acknowledge" serves as a performative utterance, indicating that the speaker is about to recognize, admit, or express gratitude for something. Ludwig AI's analysis and the examples provided confirm its role in formally introducing an acknowledgment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

20%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I must acknowledge" is a versatile phrase used to formally recognize or admit something. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, especially in news, academic and science settings. While highly versatile, remember it carries a formal register, which means it should be employed judiciously in informal settings. If informality is preferred, you can use phrases as I have to admit or I should point out. Make sure to consider context and formality for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I have to admit

Replaces "must acknowledge" with "have to admit", softening the tone and implying a confession.

I should point out

Shifts the focus to highlighting a specific detail, rather than a general acknowledgment.

It is important to recognize

Emphasizes the significance of recognizing something, adding a level of importance.

I am compelled to say

Indicates a sense of obligation or necessity in making a statement.

I feel obliged to mention

Similar to the previous, but expresses a feeling of being morally bound to mention something.

I am bound to concede

Expresses a reluctant admission or concession of a point.

Let me emphasize

Changes the purpose to highlighting or drawing attention to something.

It's worth noting that

Introduces a noteworthy observation or detail.

I recognize the importance of

Specifically acknowledges the importance of something.

I concede that

A formal way of admitting something, often reluctantly.

FAQs

How can I use "I must acknowledge" in a sentence?

Use "I must acknowledge" to formally recognize a fact, contribution, or situation. For example, "I must acknowledge the team's effort in completing the project ahead of schedule."

What are some alternatives to "I must acknowledge"?

You can use alternatives like "I have to admit", "I should point out", or "It is important to recognize" depending on the context.

Is "I must acknowledge" suitable for informal conversation?

While grammatically correct, "I must acknowledge" is generally more formal. In informal settings, consider using phrases like "I should mention" or "I have to say".

What's the difference between "I must acknowledge" and "I should acknowledge"?

"I must acknowledge" implies a stronger sense of obligation or necessity compared to "I should acknowledge", which suggests a recommendation or suggestion.