praises - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
praises Word Meanings
- to express admiration or approval of someone/something
- to worship or give thanks to a deity
- an expression of approval or admiration
praises Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
praises Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/preɪz/
US
/preɪz/
praises Word Etymology
praise = prae- (before) + aise (to set/raise). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Visualize someone raising their hands in admiration before a beautiful sunset.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I shift my gaze to the person, lean in just enough, and let my voice rise a notch. The moment changes as I hold eye contact and push warmth into the words, adjusting how I say them. As I speak, admiration settles in my chest, and the exchange feels lighter and more real.
Real Context
Praise is a flexible English word used to express admiration, approval, or worship. As a verb, you can praise someone's work, effort, or character; as a noun, praise is the expression of that admiration itself. Learners often confuse praise with compliments, which tend to be lighter and more casual. In secular contexts, praise appears in work, school, and family settings, and tone matters: sincere praise feels earned, while excessive flattery can seem insincere. In religious settings, praise can mean worship or thanksgiving to a deity, often with more formal language. Etymology: praise = prae- (before) + aise (to set/raise). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Visualize someone raising their hands in admiration before a beautiful sunset.
Usage Reminders
- - Use praise when expressing admiration for actions or work, not just appearance.
- - Distinguish praise (noun) from compliments (lighter, casual) and from applause (public reaction).
- - In religious contexts, use phrases like give praise to God or praise be to God.
- - Learn common collocations: praise someone for something, praise the effort, or praise a job well done.
- - Match the register to the situation; avoid over-praise in formal or professional settings.
Common Misconceptions
- Praise is just flattery and always insincere.
- Praising means complimenting someone's appearance, not their work.
- Praise is only used in religious contexts.
- You should always praise publicly, never privately.
- Praising someone means they did nothing wrong.
Thinking Differences
In English, praise spans everyday compliments to formal acknowledgement and religious worship. Learners should note that praise often connotes earned merit and can sound hollow if overdone; distinguish it from casual compliments and from approval or admiration for a concept or achievement.
Learning Tips
- Learn both noun and verb forms (praise, praises, praising, praised).
- Practice with real contexts: work, school, family, and worship settings.
- Use common collocations: praise someone for something; give praise; praise be to God.
- Differentiate praise from compliments (lighter) and from applause (public reaction).
- Mind register: formal praise in written communications, informal praise in conversation.
- Listen for tone: sincere praise feels earned; excessive praise can feel hollow.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
🔥 Advanced
Turning Negative into Growth: Redefining Setbacks
English Learning Listening Content
Listen NowWant to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App