Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
commend that
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"commend that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express approval or praise for something that has been done. For example, "We commend that the team worked so hard to complete the project ahead of schedule."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Formal & Business
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
7 human-written examples
We commend that determination to address the current situation through appropriate democratic institutions".
News & Media
The fact that he wants to do something says a lot about his character and we commend that.
News & Media
A fisheries policies officer, Melissa Pritchard, said: "Everyone is doing everything they can and we commend that, but, with fish stocks, it takes years to recover".
News & Media
"The story she's sharing is one of thousands that haven't really been told, and for her to bring light to her strife and her pain in hopes that someone else knows they're not alone and that they can get through it and their grief is normal – whatever normal is – I commend that," said Davis.
News & Media
So, yes, Swift is right to commend that first hearty gastronome who, throwing caution to the wind, slurped down the first oyster, savoring that exhilarating salt taste of the sea as it burst upon the tongue.
News & Media
The use of the question mark indicates that Hood (2004) was not sure of this, and I commend that hesitant punctuation mark.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
53 human-written examples
It is, of course, to be commended that they have taken this decision at all.
News & Media
Flandez commended that they are "tailored songs that carried emotional heft".
Wiki
She also commended that the pilot "doesn't shy away" from issues pertaining to race, religion and sexuality.
Wiki
Lasseter commended that Chris Buck's latest version was fun and very light-hearted, but the characters were not multifaceted, and thus did not resonate for the producer.
Wiki
Sabina Ibarra from Geek Exchange commended that the directors had crafted two very real girls "who come into their own and also come together in this amazing tale".
Wiki
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "commend that" when you want to express formal approval or praise for a specific action or decision that has already occurred. It's suitable for professional and news contexts.
Common error
Avoid using "commend that" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "I appreciate that" or "That's great" to maintain a natural tone.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "commend that" functions as a verb phrase used to express formal approval or praise for a specific action, decision, or quality. It often introduces a clause that specifies what is being commended. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in professional and news contexts.
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Science
25%
Formal & Business
12%
Less common in
Wiki
13%
Academia
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "commend that" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express approval or praise, as confirmed by Ludwig. While not exceedingly common, it finds its place in various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. This phrase conveys a formal tone, indicating its suitability for professional and public communications. When considering alternatives, options like "praise that" or "appreciate that" may offer a more accessible tone depending on the audience. Ludwig's analysis underscores its value in scenarios that demand formal acknowledgment and positive reinforcement.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
applaud that
Emphasizes strong approval, similar to commend but with a slightly more enthusiastic tone.
praise that
Offers a general expression of approval, less formal than commend but conveys positive regard.
approve of that
Indicates agreement or satisfaction with a particular action or decision.
support that
Highlights backing or advocacy for something, implying agreement and endorsement.
endorse that
Implies formal approval or public support.
hail that
Celebrates something, often used in a public or formal setting.
welcome that
Expresses a positive reception to a development or action.
value that
Highlights the importance or worth of something.
appreciate that
Shows gratitude or recognition for a particular action or quality.
acknowledge that
Recognizes the validity or importance of something.
FAQs
How can I use "commend that" in a sentence?
You can use "commend that" to formally express approval. For example, "We "commend that" the company has taken steps to improve its environmental impact."
What can I say instead of "commend that"?
You can use alternatives like "praise that", "approve of that", or "appreciate that" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "commend that" or "commend on that"?
"Commend that" is used when commending a specific action or decision. "Commend on that" is less common, but can work in some contexts.
What's the difference between "commend that" and "recommend that"?
"Commend that" expresses approval for something already done, while "recommend that" suggests a course of action to be taken. They have completely different meanings.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested