Congratulate

Definition

Congratulate refers to the act of expressing praise or good wishes to someone for an achievement or a happy occasion. It is often used to acknowledge someone's success, accomplishments, or good fortune.

Parts of Speech

• Verb (to express praise or good wishes)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈɡrætʃəˌleɪt/
• Respelling: kuhn-GRACH-uh-layt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈɡrætʃʊˌleɪt/
• Respelling: kuhn-GRACH-yoo-layt

Etymology

The word "congratulate" comes from the Latin "congratulatus," which is the past participle of "congratulare," meaning "to wish joy." "Congratulare" is formed from "con-" (together) and "gratus" (pleasing, thankful). The term entered English in the 16th century, maintaining the meaning of expressing happiness or praise for another’s success.

Derivatives

• Congratulation (noun)
• Congratulatory (adjective)
• Congratulant (noun)
• Congratulating (verb)
• Re-congratulate (verb)

Synonyms

• Commend
• Applaud
• Praise

Antonyms

• Criticize
• Condemn
• Ignore

Usage

The verb "congratulate" is commonly used to express admiration or approval, typically in the context of an achievement, celebration, or important life event. For example, "I would like to congratulate you on your promotion," or "She congratulated him on winning the award." It is often paired with words of encouragement or praise for another’s success.

Related Terms

• Congratulation: The act of expressing good wishes or praise to someone.
• Commendation: A formal expression of praise.
• Celebration: A social gathering or acknowledgment of an event or achievement.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To express praise or good wishes to someone: Used to acknowledge and celebrate someone's achievement or happiness.
  • Example: "They congratulated the newlyweds at the reception."
• To offer formal or polite appreciation: Often used in ceremonial or official contexts to express approval.
  • Example: "The president congratulated the team for their hard work and dedication."