commend

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "commend" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a verb that means to express approval of, or offer praise for someone or something. For example, "The principal commended the student for his hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'd commend the students for being proactive in ensuring a track where rape culture and the idea that consent is something to ignore isn't played on campus.

The Guardian

"We have had our differences," said Mickelson, "but he acted impeccably yesterday and I commend him for it".

The Guardian - Sport

"I commend him for making a decision that puts Fifa and the sport we love above all other interests," said Gulati.

The Guardian - Sport

"I commend our supporters for taking a stand and having the courage to report this matter to the appropriate authorities," said Campbell.

The Guardian - Sport

Instead, they commend the work of women's NGOs in Tuzla.

The Guardian

Connelly and the crew at Bosch are just trying to make the best show they can, and I commend them for it, but why aren't there some development executives out there really trying to take a chance on a show that is about something other than mean white dudes solving crimes?

The Guardian

You have to commend Postecoglou for looking at the strengths of the players available and playing to them, but most of all, you have to admire Cahill's leap.

The Guardian - Sport

President El Sisi is determined to do whatever he can to restore peace and security to Egypt and I commend him on that.

The Guardian

They were, however, opposed to two things that commend Mr Blair strongly to this newspaper: his top-up fees for universities; and, of course, the Iraq war.

The Economist

Several questioners, before digging into Mr Cardin, commend him for holding the meeting one even says, "I didn't think you had it in you".

The Economist

Without political stability, Bahrain has little to commend it as a business or leisure destination.The longer the economy remains flat, the more Bahrain will be forced to lean on neighbouring Saudi Arabia for support.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commend" when you want to formally express approval or admiration for someone or something, often in a public or official context. It's a good way to show respect and positive acknowledgment.

Common error

Avoid using "commend" in casual conversation; it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for more natural synonyms like "praise" or "applaud" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "commend" is as a transitive verb. It requires a direct object, indicating who or what is being praised or entrusted. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct and well-supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "commend" is a versatile transitive verb used to express approval, admiration, or entrustment. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news, business, and academic contexts. While it conveys a sense of formality, it's crucial to consider the context and audience to avoid sounding pretentious. Consider alternatives like "praise" or "applaud" for more informal settings. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively use "commend" to highlight positive attributes and show respect in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer praise

Highlights the act of giving praise, emphasizing the positive feedback.

applaud

Emphasizes enthusiastic approval, often involving public acknowledgement.

express approval

Focuses on explicitly stating approval rather than the act of praising.

speak highly of

Implies consistent positive remarks over time, not necessarily a single instance of praise.

sing the praises of

Emphasizes enthusiastic and repeated praise.

give accolades to

Suggests formal recognition or honors, often in a public setting.

extol

Implies praising something with great enthusiasm and admiration.

pay tribute to

Highlights honoring someone or something deserving of respect and admiration.

recommend

Suggests advising or endorsing something positively.

value highly

Indicates a strong appreciation for the worth or importance of something.

FAQs

How do you use "commend" in a sentence?

You can use "commend" to express approval or praise. For example, "I "commend" his efforts to improve the community".

What is a good synonym for "commend"?

Alternatives for "commend" include "praise", "applaud", or "recommend", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "commend" or "praise" someone?

"Commend" is generally more formal and carries a sense of official approval, while "praise" is more general and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Choose the word that best fits the tone of your message.

What does it mean to "commend" someone's soul to God?

To "commend" someone's soul to God is an older usage meaning to entrust or commit their spirit to God's care, especially after death. This usage is less common today.