graciously

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'graciously' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is done in a manner characterized by kindness or courtesy. Example sentence: She graciously accepted the award on behalf of her team.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This afternoon, the president graciously accepted my resignation".

The New York Times

"I had that, so thank you," Pooley responds graciously.

The Guardian

Instead Gove sneers at them, undermines them, devalues their professionalism, and saves his praise for the millionaire who graciously allows his name to appear on the school gates, and phones up in the morning to ask what the attendance figures are – but not until he has phoned round his stores and checked the previous day's sales figures.

The Guardian - Opinion

He accepts the question graciously but becomes animated, leaning back in his chair and waving his arms, as though the memory - whatever he may say to the contrary - stings.

The Guardian - Film

In the final days he graciously ceded the limelight to Gordon Brown, despite old animosities between the pair.

The Guardian - Opinion

Danny Boyle graciously accepted his special award from the film section at the Critics Circlee centenary celebrations at the Barbican last week.

The Guardian - Film

In it, host Sarah Murdoch (wife of Rupert's oldest son, Lachlan) announces to the two remaining contestants that: "It's you, Kelsey!" Kelsey duly embarks on an emotional speech of gratitude and appreciation; the loser, Amanda, smiles, claps and graciously thanks the programme-makers for the opportunity and then, off screen, you can hear Murdoch give a tiny gasp.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

She, very graciously, gave me her business card and told me to get in contact; thus began a connection and friendship spanning almost 15 years.

The Guardian - Opinion

And if the unconstitutional convention is followed, that means that a new deputy prime minister will be in post either when Prescott is, in effect, ejected, or Blair graciously decides it is time to go.

The Guardian - Opinion

But that seems unlikely: reports on his preferences for Ms Rousseff's appointments have already surfaced in the press.For now, the president-elect is handling the situation graciously.

The Economist

Significantly, the ruling Fretilin party, whose candidate lost badly to Mr Ramos-Horta, conceded defeat graciously.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "graciously" with verbs that denote receiving, accepting, or offering something to emphasize the positive and thankful nature of the action. For example, "She graciously accepted the gift."

Common error

Avoid using "graciously" in overly casual or informal situations where it might sound stilted or overly formal. Simpler adverbs like "kindly" or "nicely" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "graciously" modifies verbs, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig confirms its correct use and highlights its function to imply politeness, kindness, or willingness in the action. Examples include accepting a gift or conceding defeat.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "graciously" is a versatile adverb used to describe actions performed with politeness, kindness, or willingness. Ludwig AI confirms that the word is correct and frequently used in English, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While generally appropriate for formal writing, it's important to avoid overuse in informal situations. Consider alternatives such as "with good grace" or "in a courteous way" to achieve the desired nuance. Remember, "graciously" enhances communication by emphasizing the positive intent behind the action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with gentle courtesy

Combines gentleness and politeness to describe the action.

in a courteous way

Focuses on the politeness and respect shown in the action.

with good grace

Stresses the elegance and composure in accepting or doing something.

with polite charm

Highlights both the politeness and the pleasant, engaging quality of the action.

in a kindly manner

Highlights the gentle and caring way in which something is done.

with goodwill

Emphasizes the positive and benevolent attitude behind the action.

in a generous fashion

Underscores the liberality and magnanimity involved.

in a refined manner

Emphasizes the sophistication and polish in the way something is done.

with stately grace

Suggests a dignified and elegant approach, often in formal settings.

in a civil tone

Focuses on the respectful and well-mannered nature of communication.

FAQs

How can I use "graciously" in a sentence?

"Graciously" is an adverb that describes how an action is performed, implying kindness or politeness. For example, "She "graciously" accepted the invitation" or "He "graciously" offered his assistance".

What are some alternatives to "graciously"?

Alternatives to "graciously" include phrases like "with good grace", "in a courteous way", or adverbs like "kindly" and "politely". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "graciously" in formal writing?

While generally suitable for formal writing, "graciously" can sometimes sound overly formal or stilted. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to ensure it fits naturally. In some cases, "with goodwill" may be more subtle.

What's the difference between "graciously" and "generously"?

While both words describe positive actions, "graciously" emphasizes politeness and kindness, whereas "generously" highlights a willingness to give or share. You might "graciously" accept a compliment, or "generously" donate to a charity. Sometimes "with good grace" can work as a middle ground.