English Reference

Word

praising

Phoneticsprais·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈpɹeɪzɪŋ/

UK/pɹˈeɪzɪŋ/

Definitions

01expressing approval

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. saying that someone or something is very good.

v. expressing warm approval or admiration of someone or something. This participle form often functions as the main verb in continuous tenses.

“The teacher was praising the students for their hard work on the project.”

“Critics are praising the director for her innovative use of lighting and sound in the new film.”

Usage

Often followed by a direct object and the preposition 'for'.

Synonyms

complimentinglaudingextolling

02the act of giving praise

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the act of giving someone a compliment or showing admiration.

n. the action of expressing approval or admiration; functions as a gerund or verbal noun.

“Praising children when they do something right helps build their confidence.”

“Constant praising without constructive feedback can sometimes lead to a lack of motivation in high-achieving individuals.”

Usage

As a gerund, it can serve as the subject or object of a sentence.

Real-World Examples

“On 25 September, Ukraine's biggest steelworks, Arcelor Mittal Kryvyi Rih, announced it was unable to reopen after repeated attacks over five weeks, praising the bravery of its workers, five of whom had died.”
BBC News 29 Sept 2026
“Opinions were split on who came out the better, with some praising Ms Maitlis’ “strong performance” and others saying her body language was “terrible” in the interview.”
London Evening Standard 13 Mar 2019
“Rayner ended her speech at the TUC praising Andy Burnham .”
The Guardian 14 Sept 2026

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

QR code

englishreference.com/q/praising

English Reference