# congratulatory

/kənˈɡɹætʃəɫəˌtɔɹi/ (US) · /kənɡɹˈætʃʊlˈeɪtəɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/congratulatory
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

used to show that you are happy for someone because they have done something well. You use this to describe messages, letters, or even a smile that shows you are proud of them.

For teachers: expressing or intended to express praise or approval for a person's success or achievement. Often used to describe formal or written communication.

## Examples

- She received many congratulatory messages after her promotion.
- The manager sent a congratulatory note to the team after they finished the project ahead of schedule.
- Despite the initial setbacks, the athlete eventually received a series of congratulatory letters from former champions who had faced similar challenges in their own careers.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.