recognize (someone or something) for what (someone or something) is
recognize (someone or something) for what (someone or something) is
To be able to perceive and understand the true nature of someone or something. She seems committed to thinking of him as some misunderstood outcast, instead of just recognizing him for what he is—a petty thug. You need to recognize the situation for what it is and start putting things in place to deal with it.
See also: recognize, what
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
recognize something for what it is
and recognize one for what one isto see and understand exactly what someone or something is or represents. The disease represented a serious threat to all peoples, and Dr. Smith recognized it for what it was. I recognize you for what you are, you scoundrel!
See also: recognize, what
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
- recognize for what it is
- equate
- equate (someone or something) with (someone or something)
- equate with
- see (someone or something) in a new light
- see in a new light
- with (something or someone) in mind
- with something in mind
- set the record straight
- put/set the record straight