grudging recognition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grudging recognition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reluctant acknowledgment or acceptance of someone's achievements or qualities. Example: "Despite their differences, she offered him grudging recognition for his hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The idea, once largely ignored, is beginning to gain grudging recognition.

The New York Times

"There is not even a grudging recognition that something is being done".

The New York Times

But behind the haredi outrage there is grudging recognition that the "society of learners" cannot continue to grow indefinitely.

The Economist

What the man said was resentful, but it was also a grudging recognition of a slow but profound change.

The New Yorker

At least provisionally, pending the settlement of all religious issues by a general council, the Protestants had won grudging recognition of their right to exist.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Within just a few years, I've noticed reactions to IMD follow an interesting trajectory, from bafflement through indifference, hostility and mockery to a grudging recognition and acceptance.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

But his grudging acknowledgment that Ukraine's acting foreign minister was present at the meeting could be seen as de facto recognition of the interim Ukrainian leadership and its authority to make decisions on behalf of the troubled country.

Los Angeles Times

And the Black Muslims, along with many people who are not Muslims, no longer wish for a recognition so grudging and (should it ever be achieved) so tardy.

The New Yorker

Improved relations between Iran and America could offer benefits: a lifting of Western sanctions and American recognition (however grudging) of Iran's growing regional influence, starting with Syria, Bahrain and the Gulf region.

The New York Times

Yet the counterattack of persuasion, led by Carleton S. Fiorina, chief executive of Hewlett-Packard, resulted in a recognition, even if grudging among skeptics, that the planning behind the integration of the two companies has been swift and thorough.

The New York Times

Finkelman's music, which skipped about stylistically throughout the dance, was Indonesian-sounding here; it was a light counterpart to their grappling, and took the passage out of the literal and into the abstract: a recognition of imperfection, and the grudging acceptance of it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "grudging recognition", ensure the context clearly indicates the source of the reluctance. Is it due to envy, disagreement, or some other negative emotion?

Common error

Avoid using "grudging recognition" when the acknowledgment is enthusiastic or wholehearted. The phrase implies a degree of reluctance that must be present in the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grudging recognition" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or preposition. It signifies the act of acknowledging something with reluctance or reservation. Ludwig's examples show the phrase used to describe the reluctant acceptance of facts, talents, or changes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grudging recognition" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression signifying a reluctant acknowledgment or acceptance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usage across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it conveys the idea of acknowledging something despite underlying reservations. While alternatives like "reluctant acknowledgement" or "unwilling acceptance" exist, "grudging recognition" specifically emphasizes the reluctance behind the act of recognizing. It is essential to use it when the acknowledgment is truly hesitant to avoid misrepresenting the situation. Remember that the phrase fits best in scenarios where underlying negative feelings accompany the acknowledgment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begrudging acceptance

Synonymous with "grudging recognition", reinforcing the reluctant nature of the acceptance.

reluctant acknowledgement

Focuses on the reluctance in the act of acknowledging, emphasizing the internal resistance.

unwilling acceptance

Highlights the lack of willingness in accepting something, suggesting a forced or compelled agreement.

qualified approval

Implies that the approval is not complete or enthusiastic, with certain conditions or reservations attached.

reserved endorsement

Suggests a cautious or limited support, indicating some hesitation or uncertainty.

hesitant affirmation

Emphasizes the pause or uncertainty before confirming something, reflecting a degree of doubt.

guarded admission

Highlights the careful and cautious way in which something is admitted, often to avoid negative consequences.

forced concession

Implies that the concession was made unwillingly, under pressure or duress.

grudging respect

Similar to "grudging recognition" but focuses specifically on respect rather than general acknowledgment.

backhanded compliment

Involves a compliment that also contains an insult or criticism, demonstrating mixed feelings.

FAQs

How can I use "grudging recognition" in a sentence?

You can use "grudging recognition" to describe a situation where someone acknowledges something with reluctance. For example, "Despite their rivalry, she offered him "grudging recognition" for his talent".

What are some alternatives to "grudging recognition"?

Alternatives include "reluctant acknowledgement", "unwilling acceptance", or "qualified approval". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "grudging recognition" the same as "grudging respect"?

While similar, "grudging recognition" implies acknowledging something, whereas "grudging respect" suggests admiration despite reservations. Recognition is a broader concept than respect.

When is it appropriate to use "grudging recognition"?

Use "grudging recognition" when someone acknowledges something but does so with a degree of reluctance or reservation. It's fitting when there's an underlying negative emotion or conflicting feeling influencing the acknowledgment.