17 Phrases for Expressing Admiration
Expressing admiration is a powerful way to connect, encourage, and show genuine respect in English. Whether you’re inspired by someone’s talent, courage, or kindness, these 17 phrases for expressing admiration help you go beyond “That’s cool” and speak from the heart. Use them in conversations, messages, or even speeches to sound warm, fluent, and thoughtful.
Common Ways to Say ‘I Really Admire That!’
Sincere & Heartfelt
- I really admire you. Direct and deeply respectful—perfect for meaningful moments. I really admire you for staying so positive through everything.
- You’re so inspiring. Shows someone’s actions or attitude motivate you. You’re so inspiring—starting your own business at 18 is incredible!
- I look up to you. A classic phrase showing deep respect, often used with mentors or role models. I look up to you as a leader and a friend.
- That’s truly admirable. Praises a quality or action with warmth and sincerity. You forgave them after all that? That’s truly admirable.
- I’m in awe of you. Expresses wonder and deep respect—great for big achievements. You ran a marathon AND raised $10,000? I’m in awe of you.
Casual & Enthusiastic
- You’re amazing! Simple, warm, and universally appreciated. You fixed my laptop in five minutes? You’re amazing!
- I’m so impressed! A natural reaction to talent, effort, or results. You painted this yourself? I’m so impressed!
- You’ve got serious talent. Friendly and genuine—great for creative or skilled work. Your music video went viral? You’ve got serious talent.
- Wow, you’re incredible. Spontaneous and heartfelt—perfect in the moment. Wow, you’re incredible—how do you stay so calm under pressure?
- You never cease to amaze me. Playful and affectionate—ideal for close friends or family. You built a robot out of cardboard? You never cease to amaze me.
Formal & Respectful
- Your dedication is commendable. Professional praise for hard work and commitment. Your dedication is commendable—you’ve transformed this team.
- I deeply respect your work. Shows serious appreciation in academic or professional settings. I deeply respect your work on climate policy.
- You set a powerful example. Highlights leadership and integrity. You set a powerful example by speaking up for what’s right.
- Your contribution is invaluable. Formal but warm—ideal for recognizing impact. Your contribution is invaluable to this project’s success.
Admiring Actions or Choices
- That took real courage. Praises bravery in difficult situations. Speaking up in that meeting took real courage.
- I admire your honesty. Specific and meaningful—great for building trust. I admire your honesty—it’s rare and refreshing.
- You handled that so well. Appreciates grace under pressure. You handled that so well—I would’ve panicked!
Real-Life Dialogues
Friend A: I finally quit my toxic job.
Friend B: Seriously? That took real courage. I really admire you!
Friend A: Thanks—I was scared, but it feels right.
Student: Dr. Lee, your lecture changed how I see history.
Dr. Lee: Oh, thank you.
Student: You’re so inspiring. I look up to you as a scholar.
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Praising a mentor or teacher | I look up to you. | Shows long-term respect and personal impact. |
| Reacting to a friend’s achievement | I’m so impressed! | Natural, enthusiastic, and supportive. |
| Recognizing a colleague’s ethics | I admire your honesty. | Specific, meaningful, and builds trust. |
| Writing a formal thank-you note | Your contribution is invaluable. | Professional, warm, and highlights impact. |
Practice Tip
Think of one person you admire—send them a message today using one of these phrases. Your words might mean more than you know!
Why This Matters
- Using these 17 phrases for expressing admiration helps you build deeper, more positive relationships in English.
- It shows emotional intelligence and cultural fluency—key for making genuine connections.
- Sincere admiration makes others feel seen and valued, and helps you sound kind, confident, and natural.
Admiration is more than a compliment—it’s a way to honor someone’s character, effort, or impact. Try using one of these 17 phrases for expressing admiration today, and spread a little more kindness in your English conversations. Happy learning! 😊
