Appreciate is a word that is so often used to express gratitude or admiration, but sometimes you may be looking for a different way to express that emotion depending on the context. Am I the only one who constantly Google synonyms of words to spice up my writing and say things in a different way?
I think with all of these, it is important to keep your audience in mind. How I communicate with my mom or husband is so different than how I communicate at work, so my word choices are going to be drastically different.
Here are 10 different ways to communicate your appreciation that can be used to express that feeling for different contexts or situations.
10 WAYS TO SAY "I APPRECIATE YOU"
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"Value" - This phrasing is more for something is held in high regard or is considered to be of great worth. This often times feels more like a statement of fact than have an emotional anchor to the word.
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"Recognize" - This word shows that something has been noticed or acknowledged. It can be used to express appreciation for someone's efforts or contributions and is a great fit in a professional context, for a co-worker, mentor, or boss.
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"Admire" - This word implies a feeling of deep respect or admiration for someone or something. It can be used to express appreciation for someone's talents or qualities. For example, "I admire the amazing creativity that comes out of your noggin" is similar to "I appreciate your creativity."
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"Respect" - This word conveys a sense of high regard or reverence for someone or something. It can be used to express appreciation for someone's abilities or accomplishments. This is one I would use for my parents a lot.
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"Be Grateful" - My personal favorite, of course. This word conveys a sense of thankfulness or indebtedness. It can be used to express appreciation for something that has been done for you. This one is probably the most used, and is incredibly well-received.
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"Acknowledge" - This word indicates that something has been recognized or noticed. It can be used to express appreciation for someone's work or effort. It is a bit more on the dry and cold side, and is best for a professional conversation.
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"Commend" - The word commend suggests that something is worthy of praise or approval. It can be used to express appreciation for someone's efforts or achievements and is pretty formal, so use sparingly. Unless you want to show off your brain a bit! I think this one is great in a professional setting.
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"Be Thankful" - This word conveys a sense of gratitude or indebtedness. It can be used to express appreciation for something that has been done for you. This is my go-to. Thankfulness is a big part of my life, and I personally really resonate with this word choice.
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"Indebted" - This word conveys a sense of obligation or indebtedness because someone has gone above and beyond for you, and you want to pay them back in some way if you are able. It can be used to express appreciation for something that has been done for you. This is useful for extreme life events, when someone has really stepped up for you in a big way.
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"Honor" - This word suggests that someone or something is held in high esteem or is given special recognition. I have heard this used often at special ceremonies, events, or graduations. It can be used to express appreciation for someone's contributions or achievements.
There are so many words that can be used to express appreciation with others in different contexts or situations. It is important to find the right word that best communicates your own feelings and that will resonate with the person or people you are speaking with! There is no right or wrong word choice - this is all about personal preference!
What would you add to the list to show your appreciation to someone using a different word?
Remember to always spread gratitude - it can truly change the world.
