[+ obj] 1 : to say that you accept or do not deny the truth or existence of (something) : admit
▪ They acknowledged that the decision was a mistake. ▪ Do you acknowledge that you caused this mess? ▪ I acknowledge (the fact) that I hurt you, and for that I am sorry. ▪ They readily/openly/grudgingly acknowledged their mistake. ▪ She won't acknowledge responsibility for her actions. ▪ He refuses to acknowledge the authority of the court. [=he denies that the court has authority] 2 : to regard or describe (someone or something) as having or deserving a particular status
▪ They acknowledge him as their leader. = They acknowledge him to be their leader. — usually used as (be) acknowledged ▪ She is widely/generally acknowledged as one of the world's best chefs. [=many people regard her as one of the world's best chefs] ▪ Her pastries are acknowledged to be the best. ▪ This part of the city is acknowledged to have the best restaurants. 3 : to tell or show someone that something (such as a letter or message) has been received
▪ He quickly acknowledges all of my e-mails when he receives them. ▪ Please acknowledge receipt of this letter. ▪ She acknowledged the gift with a card. ▪ She acknowledged his greeting with a smile. 4 : to show that someone has been seen and recognized : to look at or talk to (someone)
▪ She walked right by me without even acknowledging me. ▪ The players acknowledged their fans by waving their hands and blowing kisses into the crowd. ▪ He refuses to acknowledge her existence/presence. 5 : to express thanks or appreciation for (something or someone)
▪ In their paper, they acknowledge the important work done by past scholars. ▪ They acknowledge past scholars for the important work they have done.