Synonym Chooser

How does the verb admire contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of admire are esteem, regard, and respect. While all these words mean "to recognize the worth of a person or thing," admire suggests usually enthusiastic appreciation and often deep affection.

a friend that I truly admire

When can esteem be used instead of admire?

The words esteem and admire are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, esteem implies greater warmth of feeling accompanying a high valuation.

no citizen of the town was more highly esteemed

Where would regard be a reasonable alternative to admire?

While in some cases nearly identical to admire, regard is a general term that is usually qualified.

he is highly regarded in the profession

When is respect a more appropriate choice than admire?

While the synonyms respect and admire are close in meaning, respect implies a considered evaluation or estimation.

after many years they came to respect her views

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of admire In the photo, Gomez, wearing a fuzzy fashion-Yeti top, appears to be admiring her new engagement ring but said nothing about the fast food merch beside her. Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 12 Dec. 2024 The theft happened three weeks before opening night, in a holiday heist that the Grinch himself would admire. Maya Eaglin, NBC News, 12 Dec. 2024 The post included photos of the diamond ring, Gomez admiring it during a picnic, and the happy couple celebrating the moment. Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 11 Dec. 2024 Andy Hill was respected, beloved and admired by many. Karen Bartunek, The Arizona Republic, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for admire 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for admire
Verb
  • But here was Rachel essentially telling him in no uncertain terms that the jury did not respect his game.
    Dalton Ross, EW.com, 12 Dec. 2024
  • At the time, these myths included assumptions that Millennials were lazy, lacked work ethic, and didn’t respect authority.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • The efforts that a brand makes to take individuals into account go a long way toward building trust and loyalty with consumers—especially those who feel that they’re seen and appreciated by the brand.
    Zaheer Dodhia, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024
  • Israel, which opposed Assad due to his strategic partnership with Iran but nevertheless appreciated his ability to keep the Israeli-Syrian border quiet, is now facing the prospect of a Sunni extremist coalition ruling next-door.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Kristin talks with peers, peers’ parents, and every staff member, explaining how the dog is trained, how to behave around it, and soothing any worries regarding potential aggressive actions.
    Ethan Stone, USA TODAY, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding the notebook's contents.
    Amanda Castro, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near admire

Cite this Entry

“Admire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/admire. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on admire

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