赏识 (shǎng shí) is a verb meaning 'to appreciate someone’s talent, ability, or potential' — especially when that person is not yet widely recognized. The character 赏 (shǎng) means 'to admire' or 'to reward', carrying connotations of esteem and generosity; 识 (shí) means 'to recognize' or 'to perceive'. Together, they express the act of perceiving value in another person and responding with respect and encouragement. It implies an active, discerning judgment — not just passive liking, but seeing merit where others may overlook it.

This word is commonly used in contexts involving mentorship, leadership, education, or personal relationships — for example, a teacher who notices a student’s hidden aptitude, or a manager who promotes an under-the-radar employee. It often appears in formal or literary registers and carries positive, warm, and somewhat elevated connotations. Unlike general terms like 喜欢 (xǐ huan, 'to like'), 赏识 emphasizes intellectual or professional appreciation, not emotional affection.