kudos - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
kudos Word Meanings
- praise or acclaim for an achievement
- a claim to fame or recognition
- credit for a success
kudos Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
kudos Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkuːdɒs/
US
/ˈkuːdoʊs/
kudos Word Etymology
kudos = credit + -os (Greek suffix that gives a sense of having a quality). Originated from Greek to English during the 19th century. Imagine receiving a trophy, symbolizing all the praise you're getting for your achievements.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Kudos is an informal noun meaning praise or acclaim for an achievement; it can also refer to a claim to fame or recognition, or credit for a success. It is often used to congratulate someone in casual conversation, and it emphasizes social approval rather than the mechanics of the achievement. The term has Greek roots and entered English as a loanword to signal admiration similar to receiving a trophy. Because kudos is typically uncountable, it sounds natural with phrases like much kudos or kudos to you rather than a kudos. People may use it to acknowledge group effort as well as individual success.
Usage Reminders
- Be mindful that kudos is informal; use in casual settings.
- Treat kudos as uncountable; avoid a kudos.
- Pair kudos with a direct compliment for clarity.
- Use kudos to acknowledge others, not yourself.
- Watch for regional nuance; some speakers use it broadly.
Common Misconceptions
- Kudos is not money or a thing you can earn; it is praise from others.
- It is not always suitable for formal writing or official announcements.
- Kudos can refer to a general reputation, not a single achievement alone.
- You cannot say a kudos in standard English; use much kudos or kudos to you.
- It is not a synonym for credit in financial or legal contexts.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, kudos signals social approval and informal praise, often used after a noteworthy success. Learners may overgeneralize and use kudos in formal writing or with inappropriate tone, or think it is a plural noun.
Learning Tips
- Learn that kudos is informal praise, not a job title or award.
- Remember it is often uncountable; you say much kudos or kudos to you.
- Use kudos to compliment others, not to brag about yourself.
- Pair kudos with a concrete compliment to add meaning.
- Listen for kudos in social media captions and casual articles.
- Practice with friends to sound natural in everyday speech.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'kudos'?
A.Rain
B.Praise
C.Sleep
D.Jump
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences use 'kudos' correctly?
A.The cat jumped high.
B.He received kudos for his hard work.
C.I want to sleep.
D.She danced in the rain.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'kudos'?
A.Insult
B.Blame
C.Criticism
D.Applause
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'kudos'?
A.Ignorance
B.Disapproval
C.Kudos
D.Dislike
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you hear the word 'kudos'?
A.A cooking show
B.A weather forecast
C.A graduation ceremony speech
D.A music concert
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