Word
graciously
Phoneticsgra·cious·ly
US/ˈɡɹeɪʃəsɫi/
UK/ɡɹˈeɪʃəsli/
Definition
adv. in a kind, polite, and pleasant way, especially toward someone who is less powerful or successful than you. You use this when someone handles a situation with good manners.
adv. in a manner characterized by kindness, courtesy, and elegance, particularly when responding to a social obligation or a defeat. Often describes the behavior of someone in a superior position or a public figure.
Examples
“She graciously accepted the award and thanked her team.”
“Despite losing the close election, the candidate spoke graciously about her opponent during the concession speech.”
“The host moved graciously among his guests, ensuring that even those who arrived uninvited felt welcomed and included in the evening's festivities.”
Examples
simple
“She graciously accepted the award and thanked her team.”
contextual
“Despite losing the close election, the candidate spoke graciously about her opponent during the concession speech.”
complex
“The host moved graciously among his guests, ensuring that even those who arrived uninvited felt welcomed and included in the evening's festivities.”
Usage
Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.
Real-World Examples
“Teammate Dalilah Muhammad graciously retired from track and field with a fourth-place season’s best of 53.11s.” Etymology
From Middle English graciously, graciousliche; equivalent to gracious + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
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englishreference.com/q/graciously