congratulations

/kəngrædʒəˈleɪʃɪnz/

/kəngrætʃjʊˈleɪʃənz/

"Kudos," "well-done," and other words of praise are forms of congratulations, or an expression of approval and acclaim.

Congratulations are expressed for good wishes on a special occasion, not just an accomplishment. For example, you wouldn't tell someone who just had a baby, "Good job on your accomplishment," but you would say, "Congratulations!" If, however, someone says "congratulations!" when you drop your ice cream cone or get a bad grade on your math test, they're probably being sarcastic.

Definitions of congratulations

1. noun

   an expression of approval and commendation
   synonyms: extolment, kudos, praise

   types:

   superlative

   an exaggerated expression (usually of praise)

   encomium, eulogy, paean, panegyric, pean

   a formal expression of praise

   eulogium, eulogy

   a formal expression of praise for someone who has died recently

   good word, recommendation, testimonial

   something that recommends (or expresses commendation of) a person or thing as worthy or desirable

   accolade, compliment

   a remark (or act) expressing praise and admiration

   character, character reference, reference

   a formal recommendation by a former employer to a potential future employer describing the person's qualifications and dependability

   puff

   exaggerated praise (as for promotional purposes)

   trade-last

   a compliment that I heard about you that I offer to trade for a compliment you have heard about me

   flattery

   excessive or insincere praise

   fulsomeness, smarm, unction

   excessive but superficial compliments given with affected charm

   type of:

   approval, commendation

   a message expressing a favorable opinion