What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
congratulate
Example
I want to congratulate you on your promotion. [congratulate: verb]
Example
We congratulated the winning team on their victory. [congratulated: past tense]
applaud
Example
The audience applauded the singer's performance. [applaud: verb]
Example
We applauded the speaker's inspiring words. [applauded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Congratulate is more commonly used than applaud in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between congratulate and applaud?
Congratulate is more formal than applaud, making it more appropriate for professional or formal settings.
