reconocimiento
“reconocimiento” means “recognition” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
recognition, acknowledgment
Also: identification
📝 In Action
Hizo un reconocimiento inmediato de su error ante la prensa.
B1He made an immediate acknowledgment of his mistake to the press.
El reconocimiento facial en los móviles es una tecnología muy segura.
B2Facial recognition on cell phones is a very secure technology.
El país le dio reconocimiento oficial al nuevo gobierno.
C1The country gave official recognition to the new government.
award, gratitude
Also: tribute
📝 In Action
Recibió un reconocimiento por sus contribuciones a la ciencia.
B2He received an award for his contributions to science.
Quiero expresar mi más profundo reconocimiento por su generosidad.
B2I want to express my deepest gratitude for your generosity.
medical examination, reconnaissance
Also: inspection, survey
📝 In Action
El médico ordenó un reconocimiento completo de los pulmones.
B2The doctor ordered a complete examination of the lungs.
Enviaron un dron para hacer un reconocimiento del terreno antes de avanzar.
C1They sent a drone for reconnaissance of the terrain before advancing.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "reconocimiento" in Spanish:
acknowledgment→award→gratitude→identification→inspection→medical examination→recognition→reconnaissance→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: reconocimiento
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'reconocimiento' is used in the phrase: 'El jefe le dio un reconocimiento por su esfuerzo.'
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the verb 'reconocer,' which is built from the prefix 're-' (meaning 'again') and 'conocer' (meaning 'to know'). Therefore, the core meaning is 'the act of knowing again' or 're-knowing,' which leads to identification and acknowledgment.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is 'reconocimiento' different from 'agradecimiento'?
'Agradecimiento' means simple thankfulness or gratitude. 'Reconocimiento' can mean gratitude, but it is often used in a more formal sense, implying an acknowledgment of the value or merit of the person or action, and it is also used for awards or identification.
Does 'reconocimiento' always refer to something positive?
No. While it often means an honor or gratitude, it can also be neutral, referring to identification (facial recognition) or a necessary medical check-up. It can even be negative when referring to the acknowledgment of a mistake ('reconocimiento de un error').


