English Reference

Word

appreciative

Phoneticsap·pre·cia·tive

US/əˈpɹiʃiˌeɪtɪv/

UK/ɐpɹˈiːʃiətˌɪv/

Definitions

01showing gratitude

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. feeling or showing that you are thankful for something someone has done.

adj. feeling or expressing gratitude or pleasure in response to a benefit or service.

“The charity was very appreciative of the many donations they received.”

“The audience was highly appreciative of the performance, remaining in their seats to offer a standing ovation that lasted several minutes.”

Pitfall

I am appreciative for your help.

I am appreciative of your help.

Use the preposition 'of' after appreciative when naming the thing you are grateful for.

Antonyms

ungratefulunappreciative

02understanding value

C1 · Advanced Formal

adj. showing that you understand how good or important something is.

adj. demonstrating a sensitive or knowledgeable understanding of the value or quality of something.

“She has an appreciative eye for modern art and design.”

“An appreciative reader will notice the subtle literary references the author has woven throughout the first three chapters.”

Usage

Often used before a noun to describe a person's taste or judgment.

Real-World Examples

“You’re appreciative and you thank God for that, but he’s still not here.”
The Guardian 13 Sept 2026
“He made appreciative noises in all the right places.”
The Guardian 21 Aug 2026

Etymology

From appreciate + -ive.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADJECTIVE

appreciative(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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