admarure in 30 Seconds
- Admiration: A strong feeling of respect and approval for someone or something.
- It signifies recognition of excellence, skills, or achievements.
- Often expressed in formal settings or when discussing notable accomplishments.
- More intense than simple liking; involves appreciation of superior qualities.
Admiration is a powerful positive emotion, a deep feeling of respect and approval for someone or something. It's what you feel when you are impressed by someone's skills, character, achievements, or even the beauty of something. You might feel admiration for a scientist who makes a groundbreaking discovery, an artist whose work moves you, a friend who overcomes a great challenge, or even a well-designed building that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It’s more than just liking something; it involves a sense of awe and recognition of excellence. People often express admiration directly, saying things like, “I have great admiration for your dedication,” or indirectly through their actions, by seeking to emulate or learn from the person or thing they admire. This feeling can be a significant motivator, inspiring us to strive for our own goals and to appreciate the best in others and the world around us. It’s a cornerstone of positive social interactions and personal growth, fostering a sense of connection and shared appreciation for human potential and accomplishment. The objects of admiration are diverse, ranging from individual virtues like courage and kindness to grand achievements like technological innovation or artistic masterpieces. It's a feeling that elevates both the admirer and the admired, creating a positive feedback loop of excellence and appreciation.
- Usage Contexts
- Formal speeches and presentations, expressing respect for an honoree.
- Personal reflections and journaling about inspiring figures or experiences.
- Discussions about art, literature, science, and other fields where excellence is recognized.
- Expressing gratitude and respect to mentors, teachers, or role models.
Her work ethic and unwavering commitment to her patients earned her the profound admiration of the entire hospital staff.
Using 'admiration' effectively involves conveying a sense of genuine respect and appreciation. It’s typically used in contexts where you want to highlight the exceptional qualities or achievements of someone or something. For instance, you might express your admiration for a leader's vision, an athlete's skill, or an artist's creativity. The word itself carries a formal tone, making it suitable for more serious or thoughtful expressions. You can use it as the object of a verb like 'feel,' 'have,' or 'express.' For example, 'I have immense admiration for her ability to stay calm under pressure.' You can also use it in phrases like 'with admiration' or 'in admiration of.' Consider the sentence: 'The students watched the master craftsman with quiet admiration as he worked.' Here, 'with quiet admiration' emphasizes the respectful awe they felt. When discussing achievements, you might say, 'His contribution to the field is worthy of the highest admiration.' The word can also be part of a possessive construction, such as 'her admiration for his courage.' It's important to ensure that the object of your admiration genuinely possesses qualities that warrant such a strong positive sentiment. Overusing it for trivial matters can diminish its impact. Think about the specific qualities you are admiring – is it their hard work, their talent, their integrity, or their perseverance? Articulating these specifics can make your expression of admiration more meaningful. For example, instead of just saying 'I admire him,' you could say, 'I admire his dedication to environmental conservation,' or 'I have great admiration for her innovative approach to problem-solving.' This level of detail adds depth and sincerity to your statement. The word is frequently paired with adjectives like 'great,' 'deep,' 'profound,' 'immense,' or 'highest' to intensify the feeling.
- Sentence Structures
- Subject + Verb + (Adverb) + admiration + for + Object: 'The public felt deep admiration for the firefighters' bravery.'
- With admiration + for + Object: 'With admiration for her resilience, they listened to her story.'
- Object + is/was + worthy + of + admiration: 'His selfless act was worthy of admiration.'
- Express + (Adverb) + admiration + for + Object: 'She expressed her sincere admiration for his leadership qualities.'
The crowd watched the gymnast’s flawless routine with silent admiration.
You'll most commonly encounter the word 'admiration' in settings where respect and appreciation for excellence are being expressed. This includes formal occasions like award ceremonies, graduation speeches, and retirement parties, where individuals are honored for their accomplishments. Think of a president accepting an award, or a retiree being praised by colleagues – 'admiration' is a fitting word to describe the collective sentiment. In academic and intellectual circles, 'admiration' is frequently used when discussing significant contributions to fields like science, literature, or philosophy. For example, a professor might say, 'My admiration for Einstein's theories has only grown over the years.' Similarly, in the arts, critics and enthusiasts often express admiration for a painter's technique, a musician's virtuosity, or a writer's prose. You might hear it in documentaries about artists or in reviews of performances. Beyond these formal contexts, 'admiration' also appears in personal reflections, memoirs, and biographies, where individuals share their respect for historical figures, mentors, or even fictional characters who embody admirable traits. Personal essays or heartfelt letters of appreciation often employ this word. Even in everyday conversations, while perhaps less frequently, people might use 'admiration' to convey strong respect, especially when discussing someone's exceptional character, resilience, or talent. For example, someone might say, 'I have nothing but admiration for how she handled that difficult situation.' It's a word that elevates the conversation, signaling a deep and genuine positive regard. It's less common in very casual, slang-filled conversations, but it's a staple in any discussion that values and acknowledges excellence and virtue.
- Common Scenarios
- Award acceptance speeches: "I am deeply honored by the admiration shown by my peers."
- Biographies and historical accounts: "Her courage in the face of adversity inspired the admiration of a nation."
- Art and literary criticism: "The reviewer expressed considerable admiration for the novel's intricate plot."
- Mentorship discussions: "I hold my mentor in the highest admiration for his guidance and wisdom."
The documentary explored the public's enduring admiration for the iconic musician.
One common mistake is using 'admiration' when a simpler word like 'liking' or 'respect' would suffice. 'Admiration' implies a higher degree of esteem, so using it for everyday appreciation can sound exaggerated. For example, saying 'I have admiration for your new haircut' might be perceived as overly formal or even sarcastic, unless the haircut is truly exceptional. Another mistake is confusing 'admiration' with 'admiration' (which is not a word) or mispronouncing it. Ensure you are using the correct word and pronouncing it clearly. People sometimes use 'admiration' interchangeably with 'inspiration,' but they are distinct. While admiration can be a source of inspiration, inspiration is the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative. You might admire a painter's skill (admiration) and then feel inspired to paint yourself (inspiration). A subtle but important nuance is the direction of the feeling. 'Admiration' is typically directed towards someone or something that possesses superior qualities or has achieved something significant. It's not usually used for oneself, unless in a very specific, often ironic, context. For instance, saying 'I have great admiration for myself' would sound boastful or self-deprecating depending on the tone. Furthermore, overuse or misapplication can dilute its meaning. If everything is met with 'admiration,' then nothing truly stands out. It's best reserved for genuine appreciation of excellence. Finally, some learners might incorrectly use prepositions. While 'admiration for' is standard, avoid phrases like 'admiration of someone's character' when 'admiration for someone's character' is more appropriate, though 'admiration of' can be used in certain contexts, like 'the admiration of the crowd,' referring to the act of admiring.
- Mistake Examples
- Incorrect: 'I have admiration for your new shoes.' Correct: 'I really like your new shoes.' (Unless the shoes are exceptionally unique or well-crafted).
- Incorrect: 'He was inspired by his own admiration.' Correct: 'He was inspired by the achievements of others.' (Admiration is a feeling, inspiration is a catalyst).
- Incorrect: 'She felt admiration in herself for finishing the marathon.' Correct: 'She felt a sense of accomplishment/pride in herself for finishing the marathon.' (Self-admiration is rare and often sounds arrogant).
The overuse of 'admiration' can make genuine praise sound insincere.
While 'admiration' conveys a strong sense of respect and approval, several other words capture similar sentiments with varying nuances. 'Respect' is a broader term, indicating a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. It's less intense than admiration and can be given more readily. For example, one might have respect for a colleague's punctuality, but admiration for their groundbreaking research. 'Esteem' is very close to admiration, often implying high regard and a favorable opinion based on worth or ability. It can be slightly more formal than admiration and suggests a considered judgment of value. 'Reverence' suggests a deep respect tinged with awe and often a sense of sacredness or profound significance, usually reserved for figures of great moral or spiritual importance, or deeply revered institutions. 'Awe' is a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder, often evoked by something majestic, powerful, or sublime. It's a more intense and sometimes overwhelming emotion than admiration. 'Appreciation' is a more general term for recognizing the value or quality of something or someone. You can appreciate a good meal, but you would likely admire the chef's skill. 'Veneration' is similar to reverence but often implies showing deep respect and honor, perhaps through worship or deep devotion, typically towards elderly or highly respected figures. In a more informal context, 'looking up to' someone signifies admiration and respect, especially for younger people viewing role models. 'Idolizing' suggests an excessive or uncritical admiration, bordering on worship, which can sometimes be unhealthy. When considering alternatives, think about the intensity of the feeling and the specific qualities being appreciated. If you are impressed by someone's skills and dedication, 'admiration' is a fitting choice. If you simply value their presence or contributions, 'respect' or 'appreciation' might be more suitable. For deeply held beliefs or figures of great historical importance, 'reverence' or 'veneration' might be employed. The choice of word depends heavily on the context and the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.
- Word Comparisons
- Admiration vs. Respect: Admiration implies a higher degree of awe and recognition of excellence, while respect is a more general positive regard for someone's qualities or achievements.
- Admiration vs. Esteem: Esteem is very similar, often denoting high regard based on worth or ability, perhaps slightly more formal and based on a considered judgment.
- Admiration vs. Awe: Awe is a more intense emotion, often mixed with wonder or even fear, evoked by something sublime or overwhelming, whereas admiration is a more straightforward positive regard.
- Admiration vs. Appreciation: Appreciation is a more general recognition of value, while admiration specifically highlights exceptional qualities or achievements.
While she earned his admiration, his respect for her was even deeper.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The root 'mirari' is also the source of words like 'mirror' and 'miracle', both related to wonder and things that evoke astonishment. This suggests that 'admiration' was originally tied to a sense of seeing something remarkable or wondrous.
Pronunciation Guide
- Misplacing stress: Stressing the first or third syllable.
- Pronouncing the 'i' in 'tion' too strongly.
- Using the wrong vowel sound for the stressed 'a' or 'i'.
Difficulty Rating
Understanding 'admiration' requires grasping a nuanced positive emotion that signifies more than simple liking. Recognizing its formal tone and its use in contexts of excellence is key for comprehension.
Using 'admiration' correctly in writing involves choosing appropriate contexts and intensity. Overuse or misapplication can sound insincere or overly formal.
Expressing 'admiration' naturally in speech requires confidence and an understanding of its formal register. It's often used in compliments and tributes.
Identifying 'admiration' in spoken language helps in understanding the speaker's positive regard and respect for the subject.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using 'for' with 'admiration': The preposition 'for' is most commonly used to indicate the object of admiration.
We have great admiration for her dedication to charity.
The adjective form 'admirable': This describes qualities or actions that are worthy of admiration.
His honesty in a difficult situation was truly admirable.
The verb 'admire': This is the action of feeling or expressing admiration.
I admire the way you handle criticism.
Distinguishing 'admiration' from 'inspiration': While related, admiration is the feeling of respect, and inspiration is the stimulus to act.
Her resilience inspired admiration, and her story inspired many to take action.
Using 'with admiration': This phrase describes the manner in which something is done or observed.
The audience watched the performance with silent admiration.
Examples by Level
I like your drawing. It's very good!
This expresses a simple liking, a precursor to admiration.
Simple present tense, positive adjective.
That dog is so friendly!
Positive observation about a quality.
Adjective 'friendly', exclamatory sentence.
He sings very well.
Acknowledging a skill.
Adverb 'well' modifying the verb 'sings'.
This cake is delicious!
Appreciating something positive.
Adjective 'delicious', exclamatory sentence.
She helped me with my homework. Thank you!
Appreciating an act of kindness.
Past tense verb 'helped', expression of gratitude.
That's a beautiful flower.
Appreciating aesthetic quality.
Adjective 'beautiful'.
He is very fast runner.
Acknowledging a physical ability.
Adjective 'fast' describing the noun 'runner'.
Your story was interesting.
Positive feedback on content.
Adjective 'interesting'.
I really admire my teacher for her patience.
Expressing admiration for a specific quality.
Verb 'admire', noun 'patience'.
The athlete's performance was amazing; I have great admiration for her.
Connecting an impressive event to admiration.
Adjective 'amazing', phrase 'great admiration'.
He shows a lot of respect for his elders.
Respect is closely related to admiration.
Verb phrase 'shows respect'.
Her dedication to her work is something to admire.
Highlighting a quality worthy of admiration.
Noun 'dedication', infinitive phrase 'to admire'.
I look up to my older sister; she's always been a great role model.
Expressing admiration through the idiom 'look up to'.
Idiomatic expression 'look up to'.
The architecture of that building is truly impressive.
Admiring something for its design.
Adjective 'impressive'.
I have admiration for people who help others.
Admiring a general positive action.
Noun 'admiration', preposition 'for'.
His bravery in the face of danger is admirable.
Using the adjective form.
Adjective 'admirable', noun 'bravery'.
I have immense admiration for your perseverance through such difficult times.
Expressing deep admiration for a character trait.
Adjective 'immense', noun 'perseverance'.
The students listened with admiration as the guest speaker shared her experiences.
Describing the manner in which admiration is shown.
Prepositional phrase 'with admiration'.
Her innovative approach to problem-solving deserves our admiration.
Highlighting a specific skill or method.
Noun 'approach', verb 'deserves'.
We hold the founder of the organization in high admiration for his vision.
Expressing admiration for leadership qualities.
Verb phrase 'hold in high admiration'.
The audience's admiration for the performer was evident in their applause.
Showing admiration through a reaction.
Noun 'admiration', noun 'applause'.
His dedication to preserving the environment is truly admirable.
Using the adjective form to describe a commendable quality.
Noun 'dedication', adjective 'admirable'.
I feel a great sense of admiration for anyone who can master a musical instrument.
Expressing admiration for a learned skill.
Noun phrase 'sense of admiration'.
The team's collaborative spirit earned them the admiration of their competitors.
Admiring a group dynamic.
Noun 'spirit', verb 'earned'.
His profound admiration for classical music led him to pursue a career as a conductor.
Admiration as a driving force for a life choice.
Adjective 'profound', noun 'admiration', infinitive of purpose.
The historian expressed considerable admiration for the resilience of the ancient civilization.
Admiring a collective historical trait.
Adjective 'considerable', noun 'resilience'.
She spoke with genuine admiration about her mentor's unwavering ethical standards.
Highlighting specific admirable qualities.
Adverb 'genuinely', adjective 'unwavering', noun phrase 'ethical standards'.
The novel's intricate plot and compelling characters evoked a sense of admiration in the reader.
Admiration as a response to artistic merit.
Verb 'evoked', noun phrase 'sense of admiration'.
Despite the challenges, his unwavering commitment to the project inspired widespread admiration.
Admiration as a result of persistent effort.
Adjective 'unwavering', adjective 'widespread'.
The politician's ability to connect with diverse groups earned him the admiration of many.
Admiring a social or political skill.
Noun phrase 'ability to connect', verb 'earned'.
You can see the admiration in the eyes of the students as they watch the master artist at work.
Observing the expression of admiration.
Prepositional phrase 'in the eyes of'.
Her contribution to medical science is worthy of the highest admiration.
Expressing the utmost level of admiration.
Adjective phrase 'worthy of the highest'.
The sheer ingenuity displayed in the restoration of the ancient artifact elicited profound admiration from the conservationists.
Admiration triggered by intellectual and practical skill.
Noun 'ingenuity', verb 'elicited', adjective 'profound'.
He harbored a deep admiration for the philosophical rigor and elegant prose of the author.
Admiring abstract qualities like intellectual depth and stylistic excellence.
Verb 'harbored', noun 'rigor', adjective 'elegant'.
The crowd's palpable admiration for the virtuoso violinist was evident in their hushed silence and thunderous applause.
Admiration expressed through audience reaction.
Adjective 'palpable', noun 'virtuoso'.
Her capacity for empathy and her unwavering commitment to social justice command universal admiration.
Admiration for moral and ethical qualities.
Noun 'capacity', adjective 'unwavering', verb 'command'.
The intricate design of the city's infrastructure, a testament to decades of planning, inspired a unique form of architectural admiration.
Admiration for complex, large-scale systems.
Adjective 'intricate', noun phrase 'architectural admiration'.
He articulated his admiration for the composer's ability to weave complex emotional tapestries through sound.
Admiration for artistic expression and its effect.
Verb 'articulated', noun phrase 'emotional tapestries'.
The sheer audacity and successful execution of the daring rescue mission garnered the admiration of the international community.
Admiration for bravery and successful, high-stakes actions.
Adjective 'audacious', verb 'garnered'.
Her meticulous research and groundbreaking findings in theoretical physics have earned her the admiration of her peers and the wider scientific world.
Admiration for intellectual achievement in a specialized field.
Adjective 'meticulous', adjective 'groundbreaking'.
The scholar's encyclopedic knowledge and nuanced interpretations of the ancient texts elicited the highest admiration from his colleagues.
Admiration for intellectual depth and mastery of a subject.
Adjective 'encyclopedic', adjective 'nuanced', verb 'elicited'.
He expressed a profound and almost reverential admiration for the artist's ability to capture the ephemeral essence of human emotion on canvas.
Admiration bordering on reverence, for artistic subtlety.
Adverb 'profoundly', adjective 'reverential', adjective 'ephemeral'.
The sheer audacity and flawless execution of the complex maneuver inspired a collective gasp of admiration from the assembled experts.
Admiration for daring and perfect execution of a difficult task.
Adjective 'flawless', adjective 'complex'.
Her unwavering moral compass and tireless advocacy for the marginalized commanded not just respect, but deep admiration.
Admiration for strong ethical character and activism.
Noun 'compass', adjective 'unwavering', verb 'commanded'.
The intricate symphony, a masterpiece of compositional genius, evoked a response of pure admiration from the discerning audience.
Admiration for a complex artistic creation.
Adjective 'discerning', noun phrase 'compositional genius'.
He spoke of his admiration for the architect's ability to harmonize form and function, creating spaces that were both aesthetically sublime and eminently practical.
Admiration for design principles that balance beauty and utility.
Verb 'harmonize', adjective 'sublime', adjective 'eminently'.
The sheer resilience and unwavering spirit demonstrated by the community in rebuilding after the disaster earned them the admiration of the world.
Admiration for collective strength and perseverance.
Noun 'resilience', noun 'spirit', verb 'demonstrated'.
Her contributions to quantum physics, marked by intellectual brilliance and meticulous empirical validation, are a source of immense admiration within the scientific fraternity.
Admiration for high-level scientific achievement.
Adjective 'meticulous', noun 'fraternity'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To feel respect and approval for someone or something.
I have great admiration for the way she handles difficult situations.
— To show or state that you respect and approve of someone or something.
He took the time to express his admiration for the team's efforts.
— Deserving of respect and approval because of good qualities or achievements.
Her contributions to science are truly worthy of admiration.
— In a way that shows respect and approval.
The students watched the scientist's presentation with admiration.
— A feeling of respect and approval.
There was a palpable sense of admiration in the room for the honoree.
— To gain respect and approval through one's actions or qualities.
His consistent hard work and integrity have earned him the admiration of his colleagues.
— To admire someone and want to be like them (often used informally, but the underlying feeling is admiration).
Many young athletes look up to him as a role model.
— To have great respect and admiration for someone.
We hold our founder in high esteem for her vision and dedication.
— Having a great deal of respect and approval.
The crowd was full of admiration for the performer's talent.
— To cause others to feel respect and approval.
Her courage in the face of adversity continues to inspire admiration.
Often Confused With
Admiration is the feeling of respect and approval, while inspiration is the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, often as a result of admiration.
Respect is a broader term for esteem or regard. Admiration is a more intense form of respect, usually involving awe or a recognition of exceptional qualities.
Adoration implies worshipful love and devotion, which is much stronger and more intense than admiration.
Idioms & Expressions
— To admire someone and want to be like them, often because they are respected for their abilities or character.
As a young musician, I always looked up to my mentor for his technical skill and passion.
Neutral/Informal— To have great respect and admiration for someone.
The entire department holds the retiring professor in high esteem for her lifelong contributions to the field.
Formal— To feel a mixture of wonder, respect, and sometimes fear towards someone or something exceptionally impressive or powerful.
Many people were in awe of the astronaut's bravery during the spacewalk.
Formal/Intense— To show great respect or admiration, sometimes to the point of submission or excessive flattery.
While we should acknowledge his success, we don't need to bow down to him; he's only human.
Figurative/Can be informal— To praise someone enthusiastically and often.
Everyone who has worked with her sings her praises for her exceptional leadership skills.
Informal— To express admiration or respect for someone's achievement or action.
I have to tip my hat to him for managing to finish the project on such a tight deadline.
Informal— A person whose behavior, example, or success is emulated by others, indicating they are admired.
She became a role model for many young women aspiring to careers in science.
Neutral— Something that serves as a standard or point of reference against which others are compared, implying it is highly admired.
Her early work in artificial intelligence remains a benchmark of excellence in the field.
Formal— To be in a state of admiring someone or something.
The students stood in admiration as the renowned scientist explained her latest discovery.
Formal— To gain respect and approval from others through one's actions or qualities.
By consistently demonstrating integrity and compassion, he managed to win the admiration of his community.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both words convey positive regard for someone or something.
Admiration is a stronger, more intense form of respect, often accompanied by awe and a recognition of superior qualities or achievements. Respect can be given for basic politeness or adherence to rules, while admiration is usually reserved for exceptional merit.
I have respect for his punctuality, but I have admiration for his groundbreaking research.
Admiration often leads to inspiration.
Admiration is the feeling of respect and approval for someone or something. Inspiration is the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, often as a result of that admiration. You admire a person's courage, and that admiration inspires you to be brave.
Her courage earned her admiration, and her story inspired many to overcome their own fears.
Both words denote strong positive feelings.
Adoration is a feeling of worshipful love and devotion, suggesting a much higher level of intensity and emotional commitment than admiration. Admiration is about respecting excellence, while adoration is about loving and worshipping.
The fans showed adoration for their pop star, but the critics had admiration for her musical talent.
Both suggest high regard.
Esteem is a feeling of deep respect and approval, often based on perceived worth or ability. It's very close to admiration, but admiration often carries a stronger sense of wonder or awe for exceptional qualities or achievements.
He held his professor in high esteem for her intellect, but he felt admiration for her ability to explain complex theories simply.
Both are positive expressions.
Praise is the expression of approval or admiration. Admiration is the feeling itself. You can praise someone because you feel admiration for them, but admiration is the internal state, while praise is the outward action.
He received much praise for his work, stemming from the deep admiration his colleagues felt for his dedication.
Sentence Patterns
I admire [noun/pronoun].
I admire my teacher.
I have admiration for [noun/pronoun].
I have admiration for his bravery.
Subject + Verb + admiration + for + Object.
The crowd felt admiration for the athlete's performance.
Object + is/was + worthy of admiration.
Her dedication to the cause was worthy of admiration.
With admiration, Subject + Verb.
With admiration, they watched the artist paint.
Subject + Verb + (adverb) + admiration + for + Object's + quality/achievement.
He expressed his profound admiration for her innovative approach to problem-solving.
The [noun] evoked a sense of admiration.
The intricate design of the building evoked a sense of admiration.
Subject + Verb + (object) + with/through admiration.
She spoke about her mentor, her voice filled with admiration.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Medium
-
Using 'admiration' for minor positive feelings.
→
I really like your new shirt.
Saying 'I have admiration for your new shirt' sounds overly formal or even sarcastic unless the shirt is exceptionally unique or well-designed. Reserve 'admiration' for qualities or achievements that genuinely warrant deep respect and approval.
-
Confusing 'admiration' with 'inspiration'.
→
Her resilience earned her admiration, and her story inspired many to act.
Admiration is the feeling of respect and approval. Inspiration is the mental stimulation to do or feel something, often triggered by admiration. They are related but distinct concepts.
-
Misplacing the stress in pronunciation.
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ad-MIR-a-tion
The stress falls on the second syllable ('mir' or 'marr'). Incorrect stress can make the word difficult to understand.
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Using 'admiration of' when 'admiration for' is more common.
→
We have admiration for his dedication.
While 'admiration of' can sometimes be used (e.g., 'the admiration of the crowd'), 'admiration for' is the more standard and frequent construction when referring to the object of the feeling.
-
Using 'admiration' for self-praise.
→
I feel proud of my accomplishment.
While one can acknowledge their own good work, expressing 'admiration for oneself' often sounds arrogant or boastful. Phrases like 'pride' or 'satisfaction' are more appropriate for self-assessment.
Tips
Be Specific
When expressing admiration, don't just say 'I admire you.' Specify what you admire: 'I admire your perseverance,' 'I admire your innovative approach,' or 'I admire your kindness towards others.' This makes your compliment more meaningful and sincere.
Vary Your Intensity
While 'admiration' is a strong word, consider its intensity. Use adjectives like 'deep,' 'profound,' or 'immense' for very strong feelings, and perhaps 'great' or 'sincere' for slightly less intense, but still significant, feelings.
Formal vs. Informal
'Admiration' leans formal. Use it in speeches, essays, or when showing serious respect. In very casual chat, simpler words like 'I think that's awesome!' might be more appropriate, but 'admiration' adds a layer of genuine esteem.
Preposition Power
Remember that 'admiration' is usually followed by the preposition 'for' to indicate what is being admired. For example: 'My admiration for her talent is immense.'
Connect to Wonder
Think of the Latin root 'mirari' (to wonder at). Admiration often involves a sense of wonder at someone's or something's exceptional qualities or achievements. This connection can help you remember the word's meaning.
Stress and Sound
Pay attention to the stress on the second syllable: ad-MIR-a-tion. Ensure the vowel sounds are clear, especially the 'i' in 'mir' (like in 'mirror') and the 'shun' sound at the end.
Nuances Matter
While 'respect' and 'esteem' are similar, 'admiration' often implies a greater degree of awe or wonder at excellence. 'Reverence' is even stronger, suggesting deep respect mixed with sacredness.
Opposite Feelings
The opposite of admiration involves negative feelings like contempt, disdain, or scorn, which signify a lack of respect and a negative judgment of worth.
Cultural Appreciation
While admiration for individual achievement is common in many cultures, remember that different cultures might place higher value on collective harmony or respect for elders, influencing what is most widely admired.
Use It Often
Actively look for opportunities to use the word 'admiration' in your writing and speaking. Try to compliment someone sincerely using this word, and you'll find it becomes more natural.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine someone standing 'at' the 'mir'ror, seeing something so wonderful they are filled with 'admiration'. The 'ad' sounds like 'at', 'mir' is the middle part, and 'ation' signifies the state of being.
Visual Association
Picture a person gazing upwards with wide eyes and a slightly open mouth, perhaps at a magnificent sunset or a towering statue, clearly showing deep admiration.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find three different things you genuinely admire in your daily life and write a sentence about each, using the word 'admiration' or 'admire'.
Word Origin
The word 'admiration' comes from the Latin word 'admiratio', which itself derives from 'admirari'. 'Admirari' is a combination of 'ad' (to, towards) and 'mirari' (to wonder at, to admire). This origin clearly links the concept of admiration to a sense of wonder and looking towards something with great interest and positive feeling.
Original meaning: To wonder at, to be astonished by, to look at with wonder.
Indo-European > Italic > LatinCultural Context
While admiration is a positive emotion, it's important to ensure it's genuine and not condescending or patronizing. Overuse or misplaced admiration can undermine its sincerity.
In English-speaking cultures, admiration is frequently expressed towards individuals who demonstrate hard work, talent, resilience, and ethical behavior. Public figures, innovators, and those who overcome significant challenges are common recipients of admiration.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Award Ceremonies and Tributes
- express admiration for
- hold in high admiration
- worthy of admiration
Discussions of Art, Science, and Literature
- admiration for the artist's technique
- admiration for scientific innovation
- admiration of the author's prose
Personal Reflections and Biographies
- a sense of admiration
- deep admiration for
- inspire admiration
Mentorship and Role Models
- look up to someone
- hold in high esteem
- earn admiration
Appreciation of Natural Beauty or Engineering
- admiration for the landscape
- architectural admiration
- admiration for human ingenuity
Conversation Starters
"Who is someone you deeply admire and why?"
"What qualities do you admire most in people?"
"Can you think of a time when you felt a strong sense of admiration for something or someone?"
"What kind of achievements inspire the most admiration in you?"
"How does admiration differ from simple liking or respect?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on three people (known or historical) you admire. What specific qualities do they possess that evoke this admiration?
Describe a time you witnessed an act that filled you with admiration. What was the situation, and what made it so remarkable?
Consider something in nature or a man-made creation that you find truly admirable. What aspects evoke this feeling?
How does the admiration you feel for others influence your own goals and aspirations?
Write about a fictional character you admire. What makes them compelling, and what lessons can be learned from their portrayal?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsAdmiration is a stronger, more intense form of respect. While respect can be given for basic qualities like politeness or honesty, admiration is typically reserved for exceptional qualities, skills, or achievements that evoke a sense of awe or profound approval. You might respect a colleague for being on time every day, but you would admire a scientist for a groundbreaking discovery.
Yes, absolutely. You can feel admiration for the design of a building, the complexity of a mathematical equation, the beauty of a natural landscape, or the principles of a well-functioning system. In these cases, admiration stems from appreciating the ingenuity, design, beauty, or effectiveness.
Admiration itself is a positive emotion. However, the object of admiration might not always be positive. For example, someone might express admiration for a villain's cunning or a criminal's audacity, focusing solely on the skill or effectiveness rather than the morality. This is a specific type of admiration that acknowledges capability without condoning the actions.
To express admiration effectively, be specific about what you admire. Instead of saying 'I admire you,' try 'I admire your dedication to finishing this project on time' or 'I admire the way you handled that difficult conversation with such grace.' Specificity makes your compliment more genuine and impactful.
'Admiration' is generally considered a formal or semi-formal word. It is appropriate in professional settings, academic discussions, and serious personal reflections. While it can be used in informal contexts, it might sound slightly elevated compared to simpler words like 'like' or 'think it's cool'.
To 'hold someone in admiration' means to have a deep and consistent feeling of respect and approval for that person. It implies that you consistently recognize and value their positive qualities or achievements, and this feeling is sustained over time.
Yes, admiration can be a powerful source of motivation. When you admire someone's achievements or qualities, it can inspire you to strive for similar goals, develop those qualities in yourself, or work harder to achieve your own aspirations. It provides a positive example to follow.
Admiration is typically directed towards others. Self-admiration refers to having a high opinion of oneself and one's own abilities or achievements. While healthy self-esteem is important, excessive self-admiration can be perceived as arrogance or conceit.
Generally, no. Admiration is a positive emotion. However, if admiration is uncritical or excessive (leading to idolization), it can sometimes blind someone to flaws or lead to disappointment. Also, expressing admiration insincerely can be perceived negatively.
Common adjectives include: deep, great, profound, immense, sincere, genuine, unwavering, highest, mutual, quiet, silent, lasting. These adjectives help to specify the intensity and nature of the admiration.
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Summary
Admiration is a profound feeling of respect and approval, born from recognizing exceptional qualities, skills, or achievements in others, often inspiring similar aspirations.
- Admiration: A strong feeling of respect and approval for someone or something.
- It signifies recognition of excellence, skills, or achievements.
- Often expressed in formal settings or when discussing notable accomplishments.
- More intense than simple liking; involves appreciation of superior qualities.
Be Specific
When expressing admiration, don't just say 'I admire you.' Specify what you admire: 'I admire your perseverance,' 'I admire your innovative approach,' or 'I admire your kindness towards others.' This makes your compliment more meaningful and sincere.
Vary Your Intensity
While 'admiration' is a strong word, consider its intensity. Use adjectives like 'deep,' 'profound,' or 'immense' for very strong feelings, and perhaps 'great' or 'sincere' for slightly less intense, but still significant, feelings.
Formal vs. Informal
'Admiration' leans formal. Use it in speeches, essays, or when showing serious respect. In very casual chat, simpler words like 'I think that's awesome!' might be more appropriate, but 'admiration' adds a layer of genuine esteem.
Preposition Power
Remember that 'admiration' is usually followed by the preposition 'for' to indicate what is being admired. For example: 'My admiration for her talent is immense.'
Example
She gazed at the ancient clockwork mechanism with a sense of pure admarure.
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