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commend
/kəˈmɛnd/
to praise or express approval
The teacher commended the student for her excellent presentation.
The teacher praised the student for her excellent presentation.
formal
to express approval or praise for someone's actions or qualities
The manager commended the team for their hard work on the project.
The manager praised the team for their hard work on the project.
The judge commended the defendant for his honesty during the trial.
The judge praised the defendant for his honesty during the trial.
Often used in formal or professional contexts to acknowledge positive behavior or achievements.
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'commend' in formal or professional contexts, such as in reports, speeches, or official documents. For casual conversation, 'praise' is more common.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'comenden,' from Old French 'comander,' from Latin 'commendare,' meaning 'to entrust' or 'recommend.'
Usage Notes
While 'commend' is often used interchangeably with 'praise,' it tends to carry a slightly more formal tone and is often used in professional or official settings.
Word Breakdown
com-
together
prefix-mend
to entrust or recommend
rootEnglish Dictionary