Blessing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that brings happiness or relief, often has a religious or moral connotation.

• Finding shelter during the storm was a blessing
• Her recovery from the illness was considered a real blessing

Typically used to describe a kind or helpful act done for someone, or preferential treatment. It sometimes implies an expected return of the favor.

• Can you do me a favor and pick up some groceries? The teacher showed favor to the hardworking student

Used when someone agrees with or accepts something, often in formal or official settings.

• He waited anxiously for his boss's approval on the project submission
• She gave her approval for the kids to go on the field trip

Typically refers to something given to someone without expecting anything in return, often for special occasions or as a token of appreciation.

• She received a beautiful necklace as a birthday gift
• His talent for music was a natural gift

Refers to something that provides an advantage or improves a situation, can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• Regular exercise has many health benefits
• The new job comes with several benefits, including health insurance

Use this when something is seen as a positive, often spiritual or religious, favor or approval.

• The birth of their child was a blessing to the whole family.
• She considered the opportunity to travel abroad a true blessing.

Appropriate when referring to something given willingly to someone without payment; could also mean a natural talent or ability.

• She received a beautiful necklace as a birthday gift.
• He has a gift for languages.

This word describes a feeling of great happiness and pleasure.

• Watching her children play brought her immense joy.
• He felt joy when he heard the good news.

Use this when referring to luck, especially when something good happens unexpectedly. Can sometimes have a negative connotation if implying luck rather than effort.

• He had the good fortune to find the lost wallet.
• Winning the lottery is a matter of sheer fortune.

This word is appropriate when talking about advantages or positive effects that someone gets from something.

• Regular exercise has many health benefits.
• One of the benefits of this job is the flexible working hours.

Used to express approval, gratitude, or well wishes. Common in religious contexts or when giving thanks.

• The priest gave a blessing to the newly married couple
• She considered her family to be her greatest blessing

Refers to a formal event or ritual, often with a social or cultural significance. Typically involves specific customs and traditions.

• The graduation ceremony was held in the main auditorium
• They attended a traditional wedding ceremony

Describes a sequence of activities involving gestures, words, or objects, performed in a specific order. Can be religious or secular.

• The morning coffee ritual helps him start his day
• They performed an ancient ritual to welcome the new season

Primarily used in religious contexts to describe the process of becoming holy or being made sacred. It often involves purification or blessing practices.

• The holy water was used for the sanctification of the new altar
• The process of sanctification is central to their spiritual beliefs

Used in religious contexts to describe the act of declaring something sacred, often involving a special ritual. It has a very formal and solemn connotation.

• The consecration of the new church took place last Sunday
• He witnessed the consecration of the bishop