I'm in *no* way defending them. But the 'appreciate' here is simply 'acknowledge/(claim to) understand', with no connotation of 'being specifically pleased by/happy about'. It's a different usage of the word than 'I appreciate your support,' or etc.
Cf: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/appreciate
ap-pre-ci-ate (-prsh-t) v. ap-pre-ci-at-ed, ap-pre-ci-at-ing, ap-pre-ci-ates v.tr.
1. To recognize the quality, significance, or magnitude of : appreciated their freedom. 2. To be fully aware of or sensitive to; realize : I appreciate your problems.
As opposed to: 3. To be thankful or show gratitude for: I really appreciate your help. 4. To admire greatly; value. 5. To raise in value or price, especially over time. v.intr. To increase in value or price, especially over time.
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Re: Mini Rant - etymology... :p
Date: 2009-11-01 06:18 am (UTC)Cf:
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/appreciate
ap-pre-ci-ate (-prsh-t)
v. ap-pre-ci-at-ed, ap-pre-ci-at-ing, ap-pre-ci-ates
v.tr.
1. To recognize the quality, significance, or magnitude of : appreciated their freedom.
2. To be fully aware of or sensitive to; realize : I appreciate your problems.
As opposed to:
3. To be thankful or show gratitude for: I really appreciate your help.
4. To admire greatly; value.
5. To raise in value or price, especially over time.
v.intr.
To increase in value or price, especially over time.