recognize it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "recognize it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of identifying or acknowledging something, often in a context where something is being pointed out or brought to attention. Example: "When you see the logo, you will easily recognize it as the brand we discussed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Everybody can recognize it.

The New Yorker

"I don't recognize it.

The New York Times

I recognize it.

The New York Times

I can recognize it.

The New York Times

People recognize it".

The New York Times

Many Republicans recognize it.

The New York Times

I didn't recognize it.

The New York Times - Books

I'm sure you recognize it.

The New Yorker

"We often don't recognize it".

The New York Times

Revere would not recognize it.

The New York Times - Travel

Recognize it when it happens.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "recognize it" in sentences where the object is implied or previously mentioned. This maintains clarity and avoids unnecessary repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "recognize it" without a clear antecedent. Ensure the 'it' refers to something explicitly mentioned in the preceding context to prevent ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "I saw something strange, but I couldn't recognize it," specify what the 'it' refers to: "I saw a strange symbol, but I couldn't recognize it as anything familiar."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "recognize it" functions as a verb phrase where "recognize" is the transitive verb and "it" is the direct object. Ludwig AI confirms its role in identifying or acknowledging something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "recognize it" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression widely used to indicate the ability to identify something familiar. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a verb phrase, playing a crucial role in identifying objects, concepts, or situations. With a neutral tone suitable for various contexts, it's particularly prevalent in news and media. For alternative expressions, consider options like "identify it" or "acknowledge it". Ensuring clarity by providing a clear antecedent for "it" is key to effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Identify it

Focuses more on pinpointing the exact nature or category of something.

Acknowledge it

Emphasizes acceptance or recognition of the validity or existence of something.

Spot it

Implies quickly noticing or detecting something, often visually.

Notice it

Highlights becoming aware of something, often through observation.

Perceive it

Suggests understanding or interpreting something through the senses or intellect.

Discern it

Implies careful observation and judgment to distinguish something.

Realize it

Focuses on understanding or becoming fully aware of something.

Comprehend it

Emphasizes grasping the meaning or nature of something.

Detect it

Highlights discovering or sensing something that may not be immediately obvious.

Be aware of it

Emphasizes consciousness and attentiveness towards something.

FAQs

How can I use "recognize it" in a sentence?

The phrase "recognize it" is used to indicate that something is identifiable or familiar. For example, "If you see the logo, you'll easily "recognize it"." It implies a degree of familiarity or prior knowledge.

What's a more formal alternative to "recognize it"?

In a more formal context, you could use phrases like "identify it" or "acknowledge it". For instance, instead of "I didn't "recognize it"," you could say, "I failed to identify it".

Is it correct to say "I recognize of it" instead of "I recognize it"?

No, "I recognize of it" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "I "recognize it"." The verb "recognize" directly takes the object without the need for a preposition.

What's the difference between "recognize it" and "remember it"?

"Recognize it" implies identifying something upon seeing or experiencing it again, while "remember it" means recalling something from memory. For example, you might "recognize it" when you see a familiar face, but you remember it when you actively recall a past event.