# praising

/ˈpɹeɪzɪŋ/ (US) · /pɹˈeɪzɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/praising
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. expressing approval

verb · CEFR B2

saying that someone or something is very good.

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. the act of giving praise

noun · CEFR B2

the act of giving someone a compliment or showing admiration.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The teacher is praising the students for their hard work.
- Critics are praising the new film for its original script and emotional depth.
- While the board is publicly praising the CEO's recent decisions, internal documents suggest a growing concern regarding the company's long-term debt obligations.

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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.