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graces

n. plural-only
C1 Advanced US //ˈɡɹeɪsɪz// UK //ɡɹˈeɪsɪz// graces

n. the favor or approval that someone shows you. It is usually used in the phrase 'in someone's good graces' to mean they like you.

n. the state of being regarded with favor or approval by another person. Typically appears in the fixed plural construction 'good graces'.


SIMPLE

He is trying to get back into his boss's good graces.

CONTEXTUAL

After the misunderstanding at the party, she sent a handwritten note to stay in her host's good graces.

COMPLEX

The diplomat spent years navigating the court to ensure he remained in the monarch's good graces during the transition of power.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Latin Gratiae, from gratia (“grace”), from Ancient Greek χᾰ́ρῐς (khắrĭs, “grace, charity”).

Usage

Pluralia tantum in this sense; almost always preceded by the adjective 'good' and a possessive noun or pronoun.

Idioms1 entry

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