Definition of Recommend
Quick Meaning of Recommend
To tell someone about something you think is good and suggest they should try or use it.
Detailed Definition of Recommend
To suggest that someone should try something because you think it is good or suitable.
How to Pronounce Recommend
Stress pattern: oos (3-syllable word).
Tip: Three syllables: rec-uh-MEND. Stress on third syllable MEND, with schwa /ə/ in second syllable.
Watch out: Sometimes /rɛkəˈmɛnd/ with equal stress on all syllables; correct stress is on final MEND.
Origin and Etymology of Recommend
From Latin 're-' (again) + 'commendare' (to entrust). Literally 'to commend again or back'.
How to Use Recommend in a Sentence
Each example shows “recommend” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I recommend this restaurant to all my friends.”
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“The doctor recommended regular exercise and a healthy diet.”
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“Recent studies recommend reducing sugar intake to prevent health issues.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Recommend
Common Synonyms for Recommend
Smart Synonyms for Recommend — When to Use Each
- suggest
- for proposing an idea informally
- advise
- for giving professional expert guidance
- propose
- for putting forward a plan
Antonyms of Recommend
Common Collocations with Recommend
These phrases pair with “recommend” in everyday English:
- highly recommend
- recommend to someone
- recommend doing
Common Mistakes When Using Recommend
Even fluent speakers slip up with “recommend”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I recommend you to try this restaurant.
- ✓ Correct: I recommend this restaurant to you or I recommend that you try it.
- Why: Say 'recommend X to person' or 'recommend that person do X', not 'recommend person to do'.
- ✗ Wrong: She recommends him going to the doctor.
- ✓ Correct: She recommends that he go to the doctor.
- Why: Use subjunctive 'that he go' or gerund 'him going' is less formal; 'that clause' is standard.
Words Confused With Recommend
- Recommend vs Suggest: Recommend implies strong approval; suggest is more neutral proposal of options. Compare →
Other Forms of Recommend
- Verb: recommend
- Noun: recommendation
Frequently Asked Questions About Recommend
What is the meaning of "Recommend"?
To tell someone about something you think is good and suggest they should try or use it.
How do you pronounce "Recommend"?
The IPA is /ˌrɛkəˈmɛnd/. Three syllables: rec-uh-MEND. Stress on third syllable MEND, with schwa /ə/ in second syllable.
What part of speech is "Recommend"?
"Recommend" is a verb at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Recommend"?
Common synonyms include suggest, advise, propose.
How do you use "Recommend" in a sentence?
For example: "I recommend this restaurant to all my friends."