1. To recognize the value or quality of something:
* "I appreciate your help." This means you recognize the value of their help and are grateful for it.
* "He appreciates good music." This means he recognizes the quality of good music and enjoys it.
2. To increase in value over time:
* "Real estate has appreciated in value." This means the value of real estate has gone up.
* "The antique clock has appreciated over the years." This means the clock has become more valuable with time.
3. To understand or grasp something:
* "I appreciate the complexity of the situation." This means you understand the situation and its many aspects.
* "I'm trying to appreciate abstract art." This means you're trying to understand and grasp the meaning and beauty of abstract art.
In most cases, the meaning of "appreciate" relates to recognizing value, whether it's the value of someone's help, the quality of something, or the increasing worth of an object.