Core Definition
Admire is a verb meaning to feel respect and approval for someone or something because of their qualities, actions, or achievements.
Key Examples
I admire her ability to stay calm under pressure.
Many people admire his honesty.
She has always admired great teachers.
They admire the design for its simplicity.
Part of Speech
Verb
Pronunciation
UK IPA: /ədˈmaɪə/
US IPA: /ədˈmaɪr/
Stress falls on the second syllable: ad-MIRE.
Common learner note: the final -re is silent in British pronunciation.
Frequency & Register
CEFR: B2–C2
Register: neutral; common in everyday speech, writing, and professional contexts
Conceptual Word Family
The words in this family are connected by the idea of valuing merit or excellence.
admire (verb) — to regard with respect or approval
admiration (noun) — the feeling of respectful appreciation
admirable (adjective) — deserving respect or praise
admiring (adjective) — showing approval or appreciation
Admire names the action: the moment of recognition.
Extended Meaning
Beyond basic respect, admire often implies:
ethical approval (admiring character or values)
intellectual respect (admiring skill or thinking)
distance without attachment (no ownership or control)
quiet inspiration (a wish to learn, not to possess)
The word suggests esteem without emotion taking over judgment.
Usage Insight
People use admire when appreciation is considered and earned.
Unlike love, it does not imply closeness.
Unlike envy, it carries no resentment.
Unlike praise, it does not need public expression.
To admire is often internal, calm, and reflective.
Grammar Notes
Admire is a transitive verb and is used directly with an object (a person, thing, or action).
It does not take an infinitive form and is typically followed by a noun or a clause.
Example:
I admire her integrity.
Patterns
admire someone for + noun / gerund
I admire her for her patience.
be admired by
He is admired by his peers.
widely / greatly admired
She is widely admired in the industry.
Collocations
admire courage
admire honesty
admire professionalism
deeply admire
truly admire
admired leader
admired qualities
These collocations appear often in evaluative and reflective language.
When NOT to Use This Word
Do not use admire for casual liking.
✗ I admire this coffee.
✓ I like this coffee.
Avoid using it when desire or attraction is intended.
✗ I admire him romantically.
✓ I’m attracted to him.
Admire focuses on value, not emotion.
Dialogues
Everyday
A: Why do you respect her so much?
B: I admire how consistent she is.
Practical
A: What do you think of the new system?
B: I admire its simplicity.
Professional
A: How is he viewed by the team?
B: They admire his leadership style.
Reflective
A: What made the biggest impression on you?
B: I admired his restraint.
Stories
He watched her solve the problem quickly. He said nothing, but he admired her clarity of thought.
The team faced criticism after the project failed. One member stepped forward, accepted responsibility, and explained the next steps. Even those who disagreed admired his composure.
Over the years, she had worked with many capable people. Yet one colleague remained memorable. He spoke little, prepared thoroughly, and never avoided difficult conversations. When conflicts arose, he addressed them directly and calmly. She did not imitate him immediately. Instead, she observed, reflected, and learned. Gradually, admiration turned into a quiet guide for her own decisions and conduct.
Mini Test
Fill in the blank:
I ________ people who stay honest under pressure.
Answer: admire
Choose the correct form:
She is deeply ________ for her discipline. (admire / admired)
Answer: admired
True or False: To admire someone always means to love them.
Answer: False
Write one sentence using admire in a professional context.
Sample answer: I admire her ability to manage complex negotiations.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
respect — recognize worth
esteem — hold in high regard
appreciate — value positively
regard — think highly of
Antonyms
disrespect — fail to value
disdain — dismiss with contempt
envy — resent value in others
ignore — show no recognition
Semantic Field
admire vs. respect
Respect can be formal or expected.
Admire is personal and voluntary.
admire vs. love
Love implies attachment.
Admire implies evaluation.
admire vs. envy
Admire values.
Envy compares.
FAQ
Is admire formal?
No. It is neutral and widely used.
Can you admire ideas, not people?
Yes. Ideas, actions, and qualities are common objects.
Does admire require expression?
No. Admiration can remain internal.
Conclusion
Admire expresses one of the clearest human judgments: recognizing value without needing to possess it. It allows speakers to show respect, clarity, and maturity in how they evaluate people, actions, and ideas.
To admire well is to see clearly.