Congratulations Meaning and Definition
Congratulations
Pronunciation
/ˌkɒnɡrætʃəˈleɪʃənz/
Part of Speech
Interjection
Definition
Congratulations is an expression used to acknowledge and celebrate a person’s achievement or good fortune, typically in a special or formal context.
Examples
1. “The crowd gave the winning team congratulations on their championship victory.”
2. “She received congratulations from her colleagues on her promotion to a new role.”
Synonyms
1. Felicitations
2. Best wishes
Antonyms
1. Condolences
2. Sympathy
Additional Information
Congratulations are often expressed through various forms of communication, including verbal expressions, written messages, and physical gestures. In many cultures, congratulations are accompanied by gifts, celebrations, or other forms of recognition. The act of giving congratulations serves as a way to acknowledge and honor a person’s achievement, and it can also help to strengthen social bonds and foster a sense of community.
In addition to its literal meaning, the word “congratulations” can also be used in a more formal or ceremonial context, such as in award ceremonies, graduations, or other special events. In these situations, the word is often used to add a sense of gravity and importance to the occasion.
In modern times, congratulations are often expressed through social media platforms, where people can share their achievements and receive well-wishes from friends and followers. This has made it easier for people to share their successes with a wider audience and to receive recognition and support from others.
Etymology
The word “congratulations” comes from the Latin words “con” meaning “together” and “gratulare” meaning “to rejoice”. The word has been in use since the 15th century and has evolved over time to become a common expression of goodwill and recognition.
Usage Notes
Congratulations can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and the relationship between the people involved. In formal situations, such as award ceremonies or business meetings, congratulations are often expressed in a more formal and dignified manner. In informal situations, such as among friends or family members, congratulations can be expressed in a more casual and celebratory way.
Cultural References
Congratulations have been referenced in many forms of popular culture, including movies, TV shows, music, and literature. For example, in the movie “The Shawshank Redemption”, the main character Andy Dufresne receives congratulations from his fellow inmates on his successful escape. In the TV show “The Office”, the character Michael Scott often gives congratulations to his employees on their achievements, often in a humorous and exaggerated way.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Congratulations are in order” – This phrase is used to indicate that someone has achieved something and deserves recognition.
2. “Congratulations on your achievement” – This phrase is used to express recognition and admiration for someone’s accomplishment.
Collocations
1. “Offer congratulations” – This phrase is used to express recognition and admiration for someone’s achievement.
2. “Receive congratulations” – This phrase is used to describe the act of receiving recognition and admiration for one’s achievement.
Frequency of Use
Congratulations are a relatively common expression in modern language, and are often used in both formal and informal contexts. According to Google Ngram, the word “congratulations” has been steadily increasing in usage since the 19th century.
Common Misspellings
1. Congradulations
2. Congratualtions
3. Congratualations