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recommendation

n.
US //ˌɹɛkəmənˈdeɪʃən// UK //ɹˌɛkəmɛndˈeɪʃən// rec·om·men·da·tion
  1. 1 a suggestion or advice (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a suggestion about the best thing to do or choose.

    a proposal or suggestion regarding the best course of action or choice.

    Example

    The doctor gave me a recommendation to eat less sugar and exercise more.

    Example

    The committee's primary recommendation was to increase the budget for research and development over the next three fiscal years.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'for' or a 'that' clause.

  2. 2 praise for something good (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a statement saying that someone or something is good and should be chosen.

    an endorsement or commendation of a person, product, or service based on its quality.

    Example

    I bought this book because of my friend's strong recommendation.

    Example

    The restaurant's success is largely due to word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied local customers.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the phrase 'on someone's recommendation'.

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  1. 3 a formal letter (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    a formal letter that describes your qualities and skills to a new employer or school.

    a formal document or letter of reference attesting to a person's character or qualifications.

    Example

    My professor wrote a great letter of recommendation for my university application.

    Example

    Candidates are required to submit three letters of recommendation from previous employers to be considered for the senior position.

    Usage

    Usually appears in the fixed phrase 'letter of recommendation'.

Origin

From Middle English recommendacioun, from Anglo-Norman recomendacion, from Medieval Latin recommendatio.

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