Recognition Meaning

UK /ˌrɛkɪɡˈnɪʃən/
US /ˌrɛkɪɡˈnɪʃən/
Word Definition
recognition meaning

Recognition Definition & Usage

noun

The action or process of recognizing something or someone for their qualities or achievements.

Examples

  • "After years of hard work, she finally received the recognition she deserved."
  • "The athlete was given recognition for his outstanding performance during the championship."
  • "His scientific discoveries were met with international recognition and praise."
  • "Despite her efforts, the artist struggled to gain recognition in the competitive art world."
  • "The company earned recognition for its innovative approach to sustainable business practices."
noun

The mental process of identifying or acknowledging something or someone as familiar.

Examples

  • "He was filled with a sense of recognition when he saw his old friend in the crowd."
  • "The recognition of her face from years ago made me feel nostalgic."
  • "Recognition of a voice on the phone can be an automatic reaction for some people."
  • "She struggled with the recognition of new faces after her accident."
  • "The brain's recognition system is incredibly sophisticated and helps with memory recall."
noun

The official acknowledgment of the validity or status of something.

Examples

  • "The recognition of her legal rights in this case was a major victory for the advocacy group."
  • "The country's recognition of the new government was essential for diplomatic relations."
  • "The United Nations granted formal recognition to the newly independent state."
  • "The recognition of their marriage was a pivotal moment in their legal battle."
  • "Recognition of the treaty by all parties involved was required before it could be enforced."

Cultural Context

The concept of recognition has roots in both cognitive science and societal practices. It plays an important role in various cultural contexts, from personal acknowledgment of achievements to international diplomacy.

The Recognition That Changed Everything

Story

The Recognition That Changed Everything

Marissa stood in the back of the crowded hall, her eyes scanning the sea of faces. It had taken her years to get here, to a place where her contributions were no longer overlooked, where recognition seemed within arm's reach. Her work had always been about innovation—finding new solutions to old problems. Yet, it often felt like she was shouting into a void, hoping someone would notice. Tonight, however, was different. As the keynote speaker announced the recipient of the ‘Innovator of the Year’ award, Marissa's heart raced. When her name was called, she stood up, surprised but grateful. This was the recognition she had worked for—an acknowledgment of her years of effort. Her hands shook as she approached the stage, the spotlight shining brightly on her as she received the award. The applause from the audience felt like a warm embrace. Backstage, Marissa found herself face-to-face with someone who had been a part of her journey for years—Daniel. He smiled, but there was something different in his expression, something deeper than just a congratulatory gesture. "I knew you'd get this recognition, Marissa. I always knew you were destined for this," he said, his voice filled with admiration. Later that night, as she reflected on her journey, Marissa realized that the recognition she had longed for was not just about public acknowledgment. It was about a deeper sense of validation, the recognition of her abilities by those who truly understood her work. Her heart warmed with a sense of accomplishment, but it also filled with gratitude for the people who had supported her all along. As the evening wore on, Marissa received several congratulatory messages and calls. But one call, in particular, stood out. It was from her mother. "I'm so proud of you, honey," her mother said. "I remember when you were just a kid, trying to explain your crazy ideas to me. You always believed in yourself, and now, the world is starting to see what I’ve always known." This was more than just an award or public recognition. It was a moment of clarity for Marissa. It was the recognition of her worth—not just from the world, but from herself. And that, she realized, was the most important kind of recognition of all.

The Recognition That Changed Everything