praise
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /preɪz/
KK: /preɪz/
noun
Definition
An expression of approval or admiration for someone or something.
Example
The teacher gave her praise to the students for their hard work.
Conversation
Did you hear the praise they gave her at the award ceremony?
Yeah, it was well-deserved! She worked really hard.
I think everyone should get more praise for their efforts, don’t you?
Absolutely! A little recognition goes a long way.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
commendation
acclaim
applause
Antonyms
criticism
disapproval
denunciation
transitive verb
Definition
To express approval or admiration for someone or something, often by saying nice things about them.
Example
The teacher praised the student for her excellent work on the project.
Tense Forms
Past: praised
Past Participle: praised
Conversation
I heard you gave a really good presentation yesterday.
Thanks! I appreciate your praise about it.
You really deserve it; your hard work showed through.
Root Explanation
Praise → The word 'praise' originates from Old French 'prier' (meaning to pray or request) and is derived from Latin 'precare' (meaning to entreat or beseech). The term evolved to signify expressing admiration or approval, often in a context of worship or commendation.
Memory Tip
Think of 'praying' or 'requesting' admiration — that's how 'praise' means to express approval or admiration.
Visually Confused Words
upraise
raise
prase
upraiser
unpraise
paradise
bepraise
appraise