Synonyms of admire

admire

verb

əd-ˈmī(-ə)r 

as in to respect

to think very highly or favorably of

I admire the way you handled such a touchy situation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• respect
• appreciate
• regard
• love
• like
• commend
• praise
• enjoy
• applaud
• consider
• venerate
• revere
• esteem
• adore
• approve
• compliment
• reverence
• relish
• credit
• value
• acclaim
• savor
• idolize
• set store by
• favor
• drink (in)
• delight (in)
• cherish
• fancy
• revel (in)
• worship
• treasure
• dote (on)
• accredit
• dig
• prize
• hallow
• groove (on)
• adulate
• canonize
• deify

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• hate
• despise
• detest
• loathe
• abhor
• dislike
• dismiss
• disregard
• disapprove
• condemn
• deplore
• disdain
• decry
• abominate
• scorn
• execrate
• discount
• vilify
• frown (on or upon)
• discountenance
• disfavor
• kiss off

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

Recent Examples of admire

Ju Ae is seen admiring a few dogs, including a traditional Korean Pungsan. —Jen Kwon, CBS News, 6 Mar. 2026

Take coffee the Italian way and sip it leisurely; these cups deserve to be admired for an entire afternoon. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 6 Mar. 2026

And while known and admired in certain corners of the tech world, he’s kept quiet. —Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 6 Mar. 2026

Jeff was admired not only for his skill and leadership but also for his compassion toward new team members, his uplifting humor during challenging times, and his calm guidance in high-pressure situations. —Kyle Werner, Des Moines Register, 5 Mar. 2026