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Gratification Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜Š
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gratification

[หŒษกrรฆtษชfษชหˆkeษชสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

instant

The pleasurable emotional reaction of satisfaction and contentment that one gets from fulfilling a desire or expectation.

Synonyms

contentment, fulfillment, satisfaction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gratification

Typically used when referring to the pleasure or reward one gets from an immediate experience or achievement. Often linked with short-term pleasure.

  • The instant gratification of eating a chocolate bar motivated him to cheat on his diet.
  • She felt a sense of gratification after receiving compliments for her work.
satisfaction

Generally used when oneโ€™s expectations and needs are met, leading to a sense of content. It can be short-term or long-term and often applies to a variety of situations such as work, meals, and purchases.

  • She felt a great sense of satisfaction when her project was completed on time.
  • The meal provided him with such satisfaction he couldn't stop praising the chef.
contentment

Used for a prolonged state of happiness and peace, often associated with life satisfaction and the absence of want. It's about being comfortable with the current state of things.

  • He found contentment in his quiet, simple life away from the hustle and bustle.
  • Her contentment was evident when she spoke about her family and home.
fulfillment

Refers to achieving one's dreams or goals, leading to a deep sense of purpose and accomplishment, usually related to personal growth and long-term goals.

  • She felt fulfillment after finally publishing her book, a dream she had for years.
  • Volunteering at the shelter gave him a sense of fulfillment he couldn't find in his job.

Examples of usage

  • I felt a sense of gratification after completing the project ahead of schedule.
  • She sought gratification through material possessions.
Context #2 | Noun

delayed

The delayed pleasure or satisfaction that one experiences after achieving a long-term goal or overcoming a significant challenge.

Synonyms

pleasure, reward, satisfaction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gratification

Feeling of fulfillment or pleasure after achieving something desired or seeing someone else succeed.

  • She felt a deep sense of gratification after helping her team win the game.
  • The immediate gratification of eating her favorite food made her smile.
pleasure

A feeling of happiness or satisfaction derived from an enjoyable experience.

  • Reading a good book gives him immense pleasure.
  • She took great pleasure in gardening during the weekends.
satisfaction

Contentment that comes when one's needs or desires are fulfilled or from a job well done.

  • Finishing the marathon gave her a sense of deep satisfaction.
  • He felt satisfaction after solving the complex problem.
reward

Something given in recognition of one's service, effort, or achievement.

  • He received a reward for his excellent performance at work.
  • She gave herself a small reward for finishing the project on time.

Examples of usage

  • His gratification came years later when he saw the fruits of his labor.
  • She delayed gratification by saving money for a dream vacation.
Context #3 | Noun

personal

The satisfaction or pleasure derived from the recognition of one's own achievements or qualities.

Synonyms

pride, self-fulfillment, self-satisfaction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gratification

This word is used when you feel pleasure or satisfaction from something. Often it refers to fulfilling desires or needs.

  • The immediate gratification of eating a piece of chocolate was worth it.
  • He felt a sense of gratification when his hard work was recognized.
self-satisfaction

This describes a sense of contentment with oneself and one's actions. It can sometimes imply complacency if not critically examined.

  • She felt self-satisfaction from her volunteer work at the shelter.
  • Though he was successful, his self-satisfaction sometimes came off as smugness.
self-fulfillment

Used when someone feels they have achieved their full potential or goals. It often has a deeper, more existential meaning.

  • Self-fulfillment is often found in pursuing one's passions.
  • He felt a profound sense of self-fulfillment after publishing his first book.
pride

This word is often used to describe a feeling of deep satisfaction derived from one's own achievements or those of close associates. Note: It can have a negative connotation if it leads to arrogance.

  • She took pride in her children's accomplishments.
  • After completing the project, he felt an immense sense of pride.

Examples of usage

  • She found gratification in knowing that her hard work paid off.
  • Personal gratification is important for self-esteem.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that instant gratification can lead to short-term pleasure but may affect long-term goals negatively.
  • Delaying gratification is linked to self-control and is often seen as a predictor of future success, as shown in the famous marshmallow study.

Culture

  • In many cultures, the pursuit of happiness is directly tied to the idea of gratification, influencing lifestyle choices and societal values.
  • Social media has amplified discussions around instant gratification by providing immediate feedback and recognition through likes and shares.

Philosophy

  • Many philosophical debates discuss whether true happiness can be achieved through immediate gratification or if enduring pleasure requires delayed satisfaction.
  • Epicureanism advocates for seeking moderate pleasures and avoiding excess, emphasizing a more balanced approach to gratification.

Literature

  • The theme of gratification often appears in literature, highlighting character choices between instant pleasure and long-term fulfillment.
  • Classic novels frequently explore the consequences of seeking immediate gratification, revealing deeper human desires and conflicts.

Origin of 'gratification'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'gratificare,' which means 'to please' or 'to give pleasure.'
  • It evolved in the late Middle Ages through Old French before becoming part of the English language.

The word 'gratification' has its roots in Latin, coming from the word 'gratificatio' which means 'a favor or kindness'. Over time, it evolved to represent the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction derived from fulfilling one's desires. The concept of gratification has been studied in psychology, particularly in the context of instant versus delayed gratification. Understanding the role of gratification in human behavior has implications for motivation, goal-setting, and overall well-being.

See also: gratified, gratifying, gratifyingly, ungratifying.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,334, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.