Graceful: meaning, definitions and examples

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graceful

[ˈɡreɪsfʊl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

dancer

Having or showing grace or elegance in movement, form, or proportion.

Synonyms

classy, elegant, sophisticated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
graceful	Used to describe someone or something that moves in a smooth, relaxed, and attractive way. Often applied to dancers, athletes, or animals. The ballerina's movements were incredibly graceful. The swan looked graceful as it glided across the lake.
elegant	Applied to something or someone that is stylish and attractive in a way that is not overly elaborate or showy. Often used to describe fashion, design, or manner. The bride wore an elegant silk dress. His speech was elegant and moving.
classy	Describes someone or something that is stylish, fashionable, and of high quality. Typically used more casually and can describe appearance, behavior, or items. She looked very classy in her black evening gown. They chose a classy restaurant to celebrate their anniversary.
sophisticated	Describes someone or something that is knowledgeable, cultured, and refined. Often used to indicate a higher level of complexity or worldliness. Her sophisticated taste in art was impressive. The novel was written in a sophisticated manner.

Examples of usage

She was a graceful ballerina, moving with effortless beauty.
The swan glided across the lake in a graceful manner.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

appearance

Having or showing grace or beauty of form.

Synonyms

beautiful, elegant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
graceful	Best used to describe someone or something that moves in a smooth, attractive, and controlled way. Often used for dancers or athletes. The ballet dancer's movements were incredibly graceful. She had a graceful walk that caught everyone's attention.
elegant	Typically used to describe someone or something that is stylish and sophisticated. Often used in the context of fashion, design, or manners. Her elegant dress stole the show at the gala. The hotel's decor was simple yet elegant.
beautiful	Used to describe someone or something that is very attractive to look at. Can be used for people, places, or objects. The sunset over the mountains was absolutely beautiful. She is considered one of the most beautiful actresses in Hollywood.

Word

Description / Examples

graceful

Best used to describe someone or something that moves in a smooth, attractive, and controlled way. Often used for dancers or athletes.

The ballet dancer's movements were incredibly graceful.
She had a graceful walk that caught everyone's attention.

elegant

Typically used to describe someone or something that is stylish and sophisticated. Often used in the context of fashion, design, or manners.

Her elegant dress stole the show at the gala.
The hotel's decor was simple yet elegant.

beautiful

Used to describe someone or something that is very attractive to look at. Can be used for people, places, or objects.

The sunset over the mountains was absolutely beautiful.
She is considered one of the most beautiful actresses in Hollywood.

Examples of usage

The graceful curves of the sculpture captured everyone's attention.
Her graceful features made her a sought-after model.

^{Context #3 | Adverb}

movement

In a graceful manner.

Synonyms

elegantly, gracefully, smoothly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
graceful	Commonly used to describe a person's movements or a living creature that moves with beauty and harmony. The ballerina performed a graceful leap The swan moved across the lake in a graceful manner
elegantly	Used to describe an action or object that is stylish and sophisticated, often with a sense of simplicity and good taste. She elegantly lifted her glass to make a toast The room was elegantly decorated with minimalist furniture
gracefully	Similar to 'graceful,' but used as an adverb to describe how an action is performed with elegance and smoothness. The gymnast landed gracefully after her routine He moved gracefully through the crowd
smoothly	Used to describe an action that happens without any interruptions or problems, often conveying a sense of effortlessness. The project was completed smoothly The car drove smoothly over the newly paved road

Examples of usage

She danced gracefully across the stage.
The gymnast moved gracefully through her routine.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'gratia', meaning favor or charm, which evolved into terms describing beauty and elegance.
In Middle English, 'graceful' was used to describe not just physical movement but also a person’s behavior or charm.
The concept of grace has ancient roots, often linked to divine favor in various cultures, influencing its present meaning.

Art and Literature

In art, the term 'graceful' is often used to describe the flowing lines and elegant forms seen in sculptures and paintings.
Classic literature frequently features graceful characters, using the term to illustrate both their physical beauty and dignified behavior.
Many famous ballet performances, such as 'Swan Lake', epitomize gracefulness through intricate movements and choreography.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, grace is a desirable quality, often linked to poise, politeness, and good manners.
The Japanese concept of 'iki' encompasses an idea of graceful elegance that reflects sophistication and simplicity in style.
In fashion, designers often aim for graceful silhouettes, emphasizing fluid lines and gentle draping fabric.

Psychology

Research suggests that perceiving graceful movements can evoke positive emotions and calmness in observers.
Individuals who embody gracefulness may be perceived as more confident, persuasive, and likable in social situations.
Studies indicate graceful movement can improve one’s self-image, contributing to better overall mental health and well-being.

Nature

Many animals, such as deer and swans, are often described as graceful due to their elegant movements and postures in their natural habitats.
Plants like willow trees are referred to as graceful because of their soft, flowing branches that sway in the wind.
Graceful movements can be observed in nature, such as how a leaf falls or how a river flows, both showcasing natural beauty.

Translations

Translations of the word "graceful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gracioso

🇮🇳 सुगठित

🇩🇪 graziös

🇮🇩 anggun

🇺🇦 витончений

🇵🇱 gracjny

🇯🇵 優雅な (yūga na)

🇫🇷 gracieux

🇪🇸 gracioso

🇹🇷 zarif

🇰🇷 우아한 (uahan)

🇸🇦 رشيق

🇨🇿 půvabný

🇸🇰 pôvabný

🇨🇳 优雅的 (yōuyǎ de)

🇸🇮 graciozen

🇮🇸 þokkafullur

🇰🇿 әсем

🇬🇪 მშვენიერი

🇦🇿 zərif

🇲🇽 gracioso

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,823 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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7820 detachment
7821 ambiguity
7822 learners
7823 graceful
7824 inorganic
7825 frontal
7826 whoever
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