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gratulatory

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɡrəˈtʃuːləˌtɔːri/

KK: /grəˈtʃuːləˌtɔːri/

adjective
Definition

Relating to or expressing congratulations.


Example

She received a gratulatory message for her achievement.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see the gratulatory message from the coach after the game?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was really nice of him to acknowledge our hard work.
Sloth A
I felt so proud reading those words of encouragement.
Sloth B
Me too! It definitely boosted our spirits.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
commendatory
celebratory
laudatory
Antonyms
disparaging
critical
condemnatory
Root Explanation

Gratulatory → It is formed from "gratus" (meaning pleasing or thankful) and the suffix "-ory" (meaning relating to or characterized by). The word "gratulatory" refers to something that is characterized by expressing pleasure or thanks, especially in the context of congratulations.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gratus' meaning pleasing or thankful, which helps you remember that 'gratulatory' relates to expressing thanks or congratulations.

Visually Confused Words
congratulatory
granulator
grallatory
congratulator
recapitulatory
raptatory
granulary
graduator
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