认可

• Pinyin: rèn kě
• Hanzi breakdown: 认 = 讠(speech) + 人 (person, phonetic); 可 = 口 (mouth) + a hook stroke, meaning to approve or permit

Meaning

To approve; to acknowledge; to endorse. To accept something as valid, correct, or satisfactory.

A slightly formal word used to express approval or acceptance of a person's ability, an idea, a decision, or a standard. Common in professional, academic, and official contexts. Can refer to both formal endorsement (certification, qualification) and informal acceptance (peers acknowledging your work). Often used with 得到 (to receive recognition).

Examples

1. 他的工作能力得到了大家的认可。 His work ability has been recognised by everyone.
2. 这个方案还没有被领导认可。 This proposal hasn't been approved by the leadership yet.
3. 父母终于认可了她的选择。 Her parents finally accepted her choice.

Usage Guide

Context: workplace, academic, professional evaluation

Tone: respectful

Do Say

• 你的努力一定会得到认可的。(Your efforts will surely be recognised.)
• 这个证书在国际上被认可。(This certificate is recognised internationally.)

Don't Say

• 我认可这个菜很好吃。(Don't use 认可 for personal taste or opinions about food — use 觉得 or 认为. 认可 implies official or social endorsement.)

Origin & History

认 means to recognise or accept; 可 means to approve or to be able (口 mouth + 丁, expressing agreement). Together: to recognise and approve.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal