gratification

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'gratification' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun so it is used to refer to a feeling of pleasure or satisfaction, often from something unexpectedly good. For example, "I felt a deep sense of gratification when I received my diploma."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It would be far-fetched to describe the US and Britain's long-term relationship with Saudi Arabia as a love affair, although elements of romance, blind infatuation and lustful mutual gratification have never been entirely absent.

The Guardian

Within that, there is particular gratification in watching young players develop.

The Guardian - Sport

The rise of the binge-watcher, gobbling every episode of a new series in two or three days, has led to a growing desire for instant gratification.

The Guardian

The short version: Babies and toddlers need imagination, not instant gratification – which is what screens often provide.

The Guardian - Opinion

The appeal was brought by Vinter, who murdered a colleague in 1996 and after being released stabbed his wife in 2008; Bamber, now 51, who killed his parents, his sister Sheila Cafell and her two young children in 1985; and Moore, who killed four gay men for his sexual gratification in 1995.

The Guardian

Over the course of the weekend, they all say much the same, but I can never be bothered to press them on the obvious question: "What's on it?" Perhaps I have a talent for deferred gratification.

The Guardian - Books

Picture the scene: perhaps in the secret back room of a nightclub, reserved for VIPs, or perhaps in a humble lavatory cubicle, we find three legendary libertine pleasure-seekers, eyes wild, in the midst of a night of crazed, hang-the-consequences gratification, lines of cocaine chopped out before them.

The Guardian

There's the same struggle between doing what's right for others and doing what might most benefit you, the same temptation to focus on short-term gratification, the same gradual – sometimes painful – process of creating values.

The Guardian

The ability to defer gratification is as close as you might get to a superpower.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

May blamed the looting and unrest on the desire for "instant gratification".

The Guardian

Mealtimes used to revolve around the kitchen table, but the fast-food boom is changing Britain and its high streets, as US food chains Subway, Starbucks and McDonald's set out to conquer a recession-weary nation still hungry for instant gratification.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing achieving a goal or completing a challenging task, use "gratification" to emphasize the feeling of accomplishment and fulfillment. For instance, "Completing the project provided a deep sense of gratification".

Common error

Avoid using "gratification" when you intend to express thankfulness. "Gratification" refers to a feeling of satisfaction, while gratitude is the state of being thankful. Don't say "I felt gratification for the gift"; instead, say "I felt gratitude for the gift".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "gratification" is as a noun. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, representing the state of being pleased or satisfied. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts, aligning with its definition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gratification" is a noun referring to the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It's very common in writing, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific contexts. While generally neutral to formal, it's crucial not to confuse it with "gratitude", which expresses thankfulness. To enhance your writing, use "gratification" to precisely convey the feeling of fulfillment, and consider synonyms like "satisfaction" or "contentment" for variety. Remember to differentiate it from similar words to avoid common errors and to maintain accuracy in your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

satisfaction

This alternative is a direct synonym, focusing on the feeling of contentment.

contentment

This alternative emphasizes a state of peaceful happiness and fulfillment.

fulfillment

This alternative highlights the sense of achieving something desired or promised.

pleasure

This alternative focuses on the enjoyable sensation or feeling.

enjoyment

This alternative emphasizes the act of experiencing something with delight.

delight

This alternative conveys a strong feeling of happiness and satisfaction.

joy

This alternative expresses intense happiness and pleasure.

relish

This alternative suggests a keen enjoyment and appreciation.

appeasement

This alternative implies the act of satisfying an appetite or desire.

indulgence

This alternative suggests allowing oneself to enjoy something pleasurable.

FAQs

How can I use "gratification" in a sentence?

"Gratification" is often used to describe the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction one gets from an accomplishment or a positive experience. For example, "She felt a sense of "gratification" after completing the marathon", or "The instant "gratification" of eating junk food is often followed by regret".

What are some synonyms for "gratification"?

Synonyms for "gratification" include "satisfaction", "contentment", "fulfillment", "pleasure" and "enjoyment". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "gratification" and "gratitude"?

"Gratification" refers to the feeling of being pleased or satisfied, often after fulfilling a desire or achieving something. "Gratitude", on the other hand, is the feeling of being thankful or appreciative for something received.

Is "instant gratification" always a negative thing?

"Instant gratification" often has negative connotations because it implies prioritizing immediate pleasure over long-term goals. However, in some contexts, seeking prompt rewards can be a motivator and can be beneficial, depending on individual goals and circumstances.