She 'is' widely/generally 'acknowledged' as one of the world's best chefs. [=many people regard her as one of the world's best chefs]
He refuses to 'acknowledge' the authority of the court. [=he denies that the court has authority]
The players 'acknowledged' their fans by waving their hands and blowing kisses into the crowd.
(..) tell you what to do. You're OK, Mr lves. Sorry, doctor. No comment! Don't leave, Santi! Don't leave! Michael Owen acknowledges the Newcastle fans as they welcome him to St James's Park. The last-minute exchange deal with Real Madrid (..)2007 Goal II: Living the Dream