ENGLISH
REFERENCE

congratulations

n. uncountable
A2 Elementary US //kənˌɡɹætʃəˈɫeɪʃənz// UK //kənɡɹˈætʃʊlˈeɪʃənz// con·grat·u·la·tions

n. words you say to someone to show you are happy about their success or a special event. You use this when someone gets married, passes a test, or has a birthday.

n. an expression of praise or approval for an achievement or a good fortune. Often used as an exclamation or in the plural form to convey well-wishes.


SIMPLE

Congratulations on passing your driving test.

CONTEXTUAL

The team received many messages of congratulations after winning the championship game last night.

COMPLEX

While a simple note of congratulations is standard, a handwritten letter often conveys a deeper level of sincerity when acknowledging a colleague's promotion to a senior leadership role.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly used in the plural form 'congratulations' as an interjection; typically takes the preposition 'on' before the event being celebrated.

Pitfall

congratulations for your weddingcongratulations on your weddingThe noun is followed by the preposition 'on' when referring to the specific occasion or achievement.

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