Definition praise in British English

Ways of praising someone

Well done

the most common way of praising someone when they have done something well

Congratulations

used for praising someone who has achieved something important, such as passing a major exam

Good for you

an informal way of telling someone that you approve of what they have done

Way to go/Good job

a more informal way of telling someone that they have done something well

Good thinking/That’s an idea/You’re a genius

used for praising someone when you think that their idea or suggestion is good

Someone is to be congratulated

a formal way of saying that someone has done well

Let’s hear it for.../Hats off to...

used for saying that you think someone deserves a lot of praise

Examples:

‘I passed all my exams!’ ‘Well done!/Congratulations! Let’s go out and celebrate.’

‘I told him I would only do it if he paid me more.’ ‘Good for you. He needed to be told.’

‘We should finish just ahead of schedule.’ ‘Good job, Karl! That’s fantastic news!’

Hannah, you’re a genius! I never would have thought of that myself. ♦ Good thinking! That’s a much better way of doing it.

The lead actor is to be congratulated on his excellent performance in a difficult role.

Hats off to Derrick and his team! They finished the project in record time. ♦ Let’s hear it for everyone who took part in the campaign.