not recognize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not recognize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating a failure to identify or acknowledge someone or something. Example: "I did not recognize her at first because she had changed so much since high school."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Chairperson does not recognize.

The New Yorker

I did not recognize them.

The New Yorker

Jana does not recognize her.

The New York Times

I do not recognize them.

The New Yorker

He may not recognize you.

The New Yorker

Revere would not recognize it.

The New York Times - Travel

"I did not recognize you.

The New York Times

He did not recognize himself.

The New York Times

"I do not recognize this.

The New York Times

You dare not recognize me?

The New Yorker

I did not recognize your username.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, use "not recognize" to convey a character's confusion, shock, or altered state, such as amnesia or disguise. For example: "He stared blankly. He did "not recognize" her."

Common error

In highly formal or technical writing, consider alternatives like "fail to acknowledge" or "do not identify" as they may lend a more precise and professional tone. Though "not recognize" is grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound too informal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not recognize" functions primarily as a verb phrase expressing a lack of identification or acknowledgment. Ludwig AI provides many examples showing it used to describe a failure to identify a person, object, or concept. This can be due to changes, unfamiliarity, or intentional disregard.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not recognize" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to convey a lack of identification, acknowledgment, or awareness. As shown by Ludwig, it frequently appears in news articles, scientific publications, and general discourse. While its register is generally neutral, it's essential to consider the context and potentially opt for more formal alternatives like "fail to acknowledge" in certain professional settings. With a wide range of applications and clear communicative function, "not recognize" remains a valuable component of the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not identify

A shorter way to express inability to identify something.

fail to identify

Emphasizes the inability to determine what something is.

fail to acknowledge

Highlights the act of not accepting or recognizing someone or something's existence or importance.

not be aware of

Indicates a lack of knowledge or consciousness.

be unfamiliar with

Highlights a lack of experience or knowledge about something.

disown

Implies a deliberate rejection or denial of a relationship or association.

not remember

Focuses on the inability to recall something from memory.

not know

Indicates a lack of familiarity or awareness.

be unable to discern

Emphasizes the difficulty in perceiving or understanding something clearly.

not appreciate

Focuses on the lack of understanding or gratitude.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "not recognize"?

You can use alternatives like "fail to identify", "fail to acknowledge", or "not identify" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "not recognize" in a sentence?

Yes, the phrase "not recognize" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity through numerous examples from reliable sources.

How can I use "not recognize" in a sentence?

You can use "not recognize" to indicate a failure to identify someone or something. For example: "I did "not recognize" him at first because he had grown a beard", or "She may "not recognize" you after all these years."

What's the difference between "not recognize" and "fail to recognize"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "fail to recognize" often implies a stronger sense of inability or oversight, while "not recognize" is a more general statement of non-recognition. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.