Express gratitude Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🙏
express gratitude
[ɡræˈtɪtjuːd ]
Definitions
in daily life
To express gratitude means to show appreciation or thankfulness towards someone for something they have done. It is a way of acknowledging the kindness or help received from others.
Synonyms
acknowledge, appreciate, thank.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| express gratitude |
Use this term for formal situations or to convey deep feelings of thankfulness.
|
| thank |
Use this word in everyday situations to simply show thankfulness.
|
| acknowledge |
Use this word when recognizing someone's effort or existence, without necessarily showing deep emotions.
|
| appreciate |
Use this term to show that you value someone's efforts, actions, or presence.
|
Examples of usage
- I would like to express my gratitude for all the support you have given me.
- She expressed her gratitude by sending a thank you card.
- We should always express gratitude towards those who help us.
formal occasions
Gratitude is the quality of being thankful or showing appreciation. It is a feeling of gratefulness towards someone or something.
Synonyms
appreciation, recognition, thankfulness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| express gratitude |
Usually used in a more formal or serious setting, often when someone has done something significant or impactful.
|
| thankfulness |
Often used casually to convey a general sense of being grateful.
|
| appreciation |
Used in both formal and informal settings when someone wants to show they value something or someone.
|
| recognition |
Typically used in formal contexts when acknowledging someone's achievements, efforts, or contributions.
|
Examples of usage
- She showed her gratitude by giving a speech at the event.
- The students expressed their gratitude to the teacher for his guidance.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, saying thank you is a way to show respect and strengthen relationships.
- In Japan, gratitude is expressed through bowing, which demonstrates deep appreciation.
- In Western cultures, writing thank-you notes is a traditional way to express gratitude after receiving gifts or help.
Psychology
- Expressing gratitude can improve mental well-being by fostering positive emotions and reducing stress.
- Research shows that people who regularly express gratitude are generally happier and more fulfilled in life.
- Gratitude practices can enhance personal relationships and encourage pro-social behavior.
Literature
- Many classic stories emphasize the importance of gratitude, such as Aesop's fables showing moral lessons about kindness and appreciation.
- Poets like William Wordsworth and Emily Dickinson often explore the theme of gratitude towards nature and life experiences.
- Letters of thanks and appreciation have been a literary device used throughout history to convey emotions and lessons.
Social Practices
- Thanksgiving in the U.S. is a holiday centered around expressing gratitude for the blessings of the past year.
- Gratitude circles, where individuals share what they are thankful for, are popular in group therapy and workshops.
- Social media has transformed how we express gratitude, allowing public acknowledgments and virtual gestures of thanks.
Health Benefits
- Expressing gratitude has been linked to improved physical health, as those who do so often engage in healthier lifestyles.
- Studies have found that writing a gratitude journal can lead to better sleep and enhanced overall well-being.
- People who practice gratitude regularly report lower levels of anxiety and depression.
Origin of 'express gratitude'
The word 'gratitude' originated from the Latin word 'gratitudo', which means 'thankfulness'. The concept of expressing gratitude has been present in various cultures and religions throughout history. It is considered a virtue and a positive emotion that strengthens social bonds and promotes well-being.