felicitate

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "felicitate" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a verb which means to congratulate or praise someone. You would use it to acknowledge a person's success or accomplishment. For example: "We would like to felicitate Sarah on the successful launch of her new business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

They are getting ready for some grand ceremonials in Antigua to felicitate, as they say in India, four of their greatest sons.

The Guardian - Sport

As we know from fragments of Siger's treatise On Happiness (De felicitate), he embraces Averroes' thesis that all intellects are made blessed through the conjunction with the active intellect.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

He has been touring the country being "felicitated" by his people, many of whom regard him as an incarnation of the god Vishnu.

The Economist

Talk story about a congratulatory message from the inhabitants of Flushing, Queens, sent to the people of Flushing, Holland, felicitating them on their liberation.

The New Yorker

Mr. Gandhi, an eminent business leader himself, felicitated the panel of guests on the dais.

The New York Times

We are informed that there is a letter on its way, felicitating Mr. Roosevelt and renewing the request for a pension.

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, December 16, 1944 P. 15 Talk story about a congratulatory message from the inhabitants of Flushing, Queens, sent to the people of Flushing, Holland, felicitating them on their liberation.

The New Yorker

By Rosann Smith and Russell Maloney The New Yorker, December 16, 1944 P. 15 Talk story about a congratulatory message from the inhabitants of Flushing, Queens, sent to the people of Flushing, Holland, felicitating them on their liberation.

The New Yorker

He then had her bold the phone for a few minutes, and returning said, "I take pleasure in felicitating you both.

The New Yorker

So did the Sikh Golden Temple, which felicitated him on the massacre and made him an honorary Sikh.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid sounding overly formal, consider using "congratulate" in more casual settings.

Common error

Avoid using "felicitate" in everyday conversation or informal writing. Its formality can sound stilted or unnatural in such contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "congratulate" or "praise".

Linguistic Context

The word "felicitate" functions primarily as a transitive verb. It requires a direct object, indicating whom one is congratulating. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "felicitate" is a formal verb used to express congratulations or praise. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and appropriateness in formal contexts. While it conveys respect and admiration, it's best reserved for official settings and significant achievements to avoid sounding overly stilted. Consider synonyms like "congratulate" or "praise" for more casual situations. Its usage is most commonly found in news media and scientific publications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

congratulate

This is the most direct synonym, simply meaning to express pleasure at someone's success.

offer congratulations

A slightly more formal way to express congratulations.

express admiration

Focuses on expressing respect and approval for someone's achievement.

pay tribute to

Highlights honoring someone for their accomplishments.

applaud

Implies enthusiastic approval and praise.

compliment

Offers a kind remark, usually about a specific quality or achievement.

praise

General term for expressing approval or admiration.

salute

Acknowledge or respect (someone or something) publicly.

celebrate

Focuses on marking an occasion or achievement with festivities.

commend

To praise formally or officially.

FAQs

What does "felicitate" mean?

"Felicitate" means to congratulate or praise someone, typically in a formal setting.

When is it appropriate to use "felicitate"?

Use "felicitate" in formal contexts when you want to express congratulations or admiration, especially for significant achievements or milestones.

Are there alternatives to "felicitate"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "congratulate", "praise", or "commend" depending on the context and level of formality.

How to use "felicitate" in a sentence?

You can say, "We would like to "felicitate" Sarah on the successful launch of her new business" or "The organization felicitated the volunteers for their dedication".