Gratefully: meaning, definitions and examples

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gratefully

[ˈɡreɪtfəli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

expressing gratitude

In a grateful manner; with appreciation and thanks.

Synonyms

appreciatively, graciously, thankfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gratefully	Used when someone is very thankful for something and wants to show their deep appreciation. She gratefully accepted the award, thanking everyone who helped her
thankfully	Used when someone feels relief or gratitude for something positive that has happened or for avoiding something bad. Thankfully, the storm passed without causing any damage
appreciatively	Used when someone is recognizing the value of something or someone, often subtly. He nodded appreciatively as his colleague explained the difficult concept
graciously	Used to describe a manner that is polite, kind, and warm-hearted, often when accepting a gift or compliment. She graciously accepted the compliment with a smile

Examples of usage

She smiled gratefully at her rescuer.
He gratefully accepted the award on behalf of his team.
I gratefully acknowledge the support of my family during this difficult time.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

to do something willingly

In a willing or enthusiastic manner; eagerly.

Synonyms

eagerly, enthusiastically, willingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gratefully	Used to express thankfulness or relief in a situation. Often applied when someone wants to show appreciation for help or kindness received. She accepted the gift gratefully. He gratefully acknowledged his friend’s support.
willingly	Indicates readiness or consent to do something without any reluctance. This word is suitable when someone is happy to offer help or accept a task. She willingly volunteered for the task. The students willingly participated in the event.
enthusiastically	Denotes an intense and lively interest or excitement about something. Often used when someone is very passionate and shows a lot of energy toward an activity or idea. The audience clapped enthusiastically after the performance. He enthusiastically joined the new project.
eagerly	Describes a strong desire or a high level of anticipation about something that is going to happen. It is typically used when someone is very excited or keen about a future event. The children waited eagerly for the holidays. She eagerly agreed to the terms of the contract.

Examples of usage

She gratefully accepted the challenge to lead the project.
He gratefully volunteered to help with the event.
They gratefully agreed to contribute to the charity.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the combination of 'grate' (to thank) and the suffix '-fully,' which means 'full of'.
Its roots can be traced back to Middle English, where 'grate' meant to show kindness or appreciation.

Psychology

Expressing thanks can increase happiness and reduce feelings of depression.
Research shows that practicing gratitude can lead to improved sleep and self-esteem.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, expressing gratitude is an important social norm that strengthens relationships.
Thanksgiving in the United States centers around gratitude for the harvest and blessings of the past year.

Literature

Gratitude often appears in poetry and prose as a theme, emphasizing the beauty of appreciation.
Famous authors like Maya Angelou and Mark Twain have written about the importance of being thankful.

Philosophy

Philosophers have long debated the role of gratitude in achieving happiness and moral virtues.
The idea that being thankful can lead to a more fulfilling life is central to many philosophical teachings.

Translations

Translations of the word "gratefully" in other languages:

🇵🇹 agradecidamente

🇮🇳 आभारपूर्वक

🇩🇪 dankbar

🇮🇩 dengan berterima kasih

🇺🇦 вдячно

🇵🇱 z wdzięcznością

🇯🇵 感謝して

🇫🇷 reconnaissant

🇪🇸 agradecidamente

🇹🇷 minnetle

🇰🇷 감사하게

🇸🇦 بامتنان

🇨🇿 vděčně

🇸🇰 vďačne

🇨🇳 感激地

🇸🇮 hvaležno

🇮🇸 þakksamlega

🇰🇿 ризашылықпен

🇬🇪 მადლიერებით

🇦🇿 minnətdarlıqla

🇲🇽 agradecidamente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,666, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
11663 plating
11664 easement
11665 psychiatry
11666 gratefully
11667 munitions
11668 accumulating
11669 bead
...