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

Example 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 Tilley, shown in tears, admires a sparkling ring on her hand, and Kiyoko lifts her off the ground as the two celebrate. Raechal Shewfelt, EW.com, 10 July 2025 The semifinal crowd inside Energizer Park in St. Louis was visibly pro-Guatemalan, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino admiring the opposing team’s passion. Melanie Anzidei, New York Times, 9 July 2025 The resort has 23 accommodations (ranging from rooms and suites to villas), a private beach, an infinity pool, a beachfront restaurant perfect for admiring sunset views, and a yacht available for charter. Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025 Dozens of people admiring the moose commented on the Facebook videos. Idaho Statesman, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for admire
Recent Examples of Synonyms for admire
Verb
  • Thank you for understanding and respecting our wishes during this deeply personal time.
    Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 10 July 2025
  • That’s where dynamic leadership comes into play: Harada understood and cared for his workers, respecting the local culture and giving them space to be themselves, while at the same time maintaining his Japanese traditions and introducing them into an American context.
    IESE Business School, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • Your input would be greatly appreciated. — CARING ABOUT HIM DEAR CARING: Continue to be gracious to Nicole.
    Jeanne Phillips, Mercury News, 10 July 2025
  • While a private jet is far faster than a train, many travelers are learning to appreciate a more relaxed trip with scenic views.
    John Kell, Fortune, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • Commissioners at a committee meeting on July 8 recommended approvals regarding a $1.9 million settlement for the Detroit Public Library and $83,231 for Southgate Veterans Memorial Library.
    Nushrat Rahman, Freep.com, 10 July 2025
  • While the measure was discussed to some extent on that May date, specifics regarding the measure weren’t known until months later.
    Thomas Gounley, Denver Post, 10 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Admire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/admire. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on admire

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