commend

What does “commend” mean?

verb.to praise formally or officially.

SAT Usage

This term often appears in contexts related to achievement, recognition, or morality, emphasizing formal praise for actions or accomplishments. It implies not just admiration, but an official endorsement, distinguishing it from similar words like "applaud," which may suggest informal or casual approval.

Common Confusions

Commend implies formal or official praise for achievements, while applaud usually suggests informal or casual approval without the weight of an official endorsement.

Example Sentences

• The schoolboy was commended for raising the alarm about the burning building.

• The director took time to commend the volunteers on stage.

Word Parts: How to Remember “commend”

Break “commend” into its parts: co- (together, with). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: co- together, with (Latin)