What does recommended mean?
Recommended is the adjective form of recommend and describes something that is regarded as a good, suitable, or advisable choice. It is often used to endorse a person, place, product, course of action, or standard, as in “highly recommended.” The word may also mean advised or proposed, especially in phrases such as “the recommended amount” or “a recommended course of action.” In everyday use, it often carries a persuasive implication: the thing mentioned has been judged preferable to available alternatives, although that judgment may be based on personal opinion rather than proof. Recommended is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts and is frequently used as a courteous way of giving advice. It is distinct from recommendedly, a much less common adverb, and from recommendation, the noun.
Regarded as desirable, suitable, or advisable; endorsed or advised as a preferred choice.
"The museum is a recommended stop for visitors to the city."
Very common in both spoken and written English. “Highly recommended” is especially idiomatic when expressing strong approval.
In a way that is advised or regarded as desirable.
"The route was recommendedly chosen for its accessibility."
Rare and less natural than using “as recommended” or “the recommended route.”
“Recommended” quietly carries a persuasive voice: it suggests that better alternatives have been considered and found wanting.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does recommended come from?
Recommended derives from recommend, which comes from the Latin recommendare, formed from re- (“again”) and mandare (“to command, give orders to”). The word entered English in the early 16th century in the sense of presenting something favourably to another person. Its development led to the established sense of advising or endorsing, from which the modern adjective developed.
How recommended is actually used
Common in both formal and informal contexts. It can express a genuine recommendation or serve as a polite, conventional way of advising someone.