B1verbrelationshipsemotions
US/kənˈɡrætʃ.ə.leɪt/
UK/kənˈɡrætʃ.ə.leɪt/
to tell someone you are happy about their success or good news
In context
I called my cousin to congratulate her on her new job.
The coach congratulated the players after the big win.
You should congratulate yourself on getting through such a hard year.
Words that go with congratulate
verb + preposition
- congratulate someone onEveryone came to congratulate him on his promotion.
verb + noun
- congratulate the winnerShe walked over to congratulate the winner.
- congratulate the teamThe manager congratulated the team on a great season.
- congratulate yourselfYou can congratulate yourself on a job well done.
adverb + verb
- warmly congratulateI warmly congratulate you on your wedding.
- personally congratulateThe mayor personally congratulated each graduate.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I congratulate you for your exam results.Correct: I congratulate you on your exam results.
Incorrect:
Congratulation!Correct: Congratulations!