When we talk about the word extol, we are referring to an expression of praise that is both enthusiastic and public. This verb carries with it a strong emotional tone, suggesting admiration or high approval of someone or something. In both everyday conversation and formal writing, extol is often used to describe how people speak highly of achievements, virtues, qualities, or good deeds. Finding the nearest in meaning of extol helps us better understand its context, nuance, and appropriate usage across various situations. Understanding similar words also broadens our vocabulary and allows for more precise communication, especially when discussing admiration, praise, and commendation.
Understanding the Definition of Extol
Before exploring its synonyms, it’s important to clearly define the word itself. Extol is a verb that means to praise enthusiastically, to glorify, or to speak very highly of someone or something. It is often used when someone is being honored or commended for their virtues, talents, or accomplishments. This word appears in both spoken English and formal writing, particularly in speeches, literature, news topics, and academic texts.
Examples of Usage
- The teacher extolled the student’s hard work and dedication.
- He was extolled by the community for his bravery during the flood.
- Critics extolled the film for its emotional depth and stunning visuals.
Nearest in Meaning of Extol
The nearest in meaning of extol includes several rich and descriptive words that also communicate praise, admiration, or celebration. These words can be used interchangeably in many contexts but may differ slightly in tone, formality, or intensity.
1. Praise
Arguably the most direct synonym of extol is praise. This word also refers to the expression of approval or admiration for someone or something. While extol implies a more enthusiastic and public declaration, praise is a general and widely used term.
- She praised her daughter’s creativity.
- The manager praised the employee for meeting the deadline early.
2. Laud
Laud is a more formal synonym of extol. It conveys admiration and honor, often used in literary or academic settings. While not as commonly used in everyday speech, it carries the same strong meaning.
- The Nobel Prize winner was lauded for her groundbreaking research.
- Historians laud the leader’s vision and reforms.
3. Commend
Commend also shares a close meaning with extol. It refers to the expression of approval or giving recognition to someone for their actions. Commend is often used in professional or formal settings, such as letters of recommendation or awards.
- The firefighter was commended for his courage.
- We commend your commitment to the project’s success.
4. Applaud
Although often associated with clapping hands, applaud can also mean to express approval or admiration, especially verbally. It is a strong word similar in tone to extol.
- The audience applauded the performance with a standing ovation.
- They applauded his efforts to bring peace to the region.
5. Celebrate
Celebrate may seem broader, but it can also be used to express admiration and high regard for someone’s qualities or achievements. It carries a joyful tone and is often used in ceremonies and public recognition.
- The nation celebrated the hero’s achievements.
- The book celebrates the strength of the human spirit.
6. Glorify
Glorify takes admiration to a heightened level. It means to praise or honor greatly, sometimes in a religious or spiritual context. It can also imply making something seem more important or wonderful than it actually is, depending on the tone and setting.
- The poem glorifies the beauty of nature.
- He glorified his past accomplishments in every conversation.
7. Eulogize
Used primarily in funeral settings or memorials, eulogize means to extol or highly praise someone, especially after their death. It shares the same depth of admiration as extol but is more specific in context.
- Friends and family eulogized the man’s kindness and generosity.
- She eulogized her mentor in a moving speech.
Differences in Connotation and Usage
Although these synonyms are nearest in meaning of extol, they may carry different connotations. Praise is neutral and versatile, while laud and eulogize are more formal. Celebrate and applaud may convey public appreciation, whereas glorify may suggest exaggeration in some contexts. Being aware of these subtle distinctions helps in choosing the right word based on the situation and tone you wish to convey.
Contextual Considerations
- Formal writing: Laud, commend, eulogize
- Casual conversation: Praise, applaud, celebrate
- Literary or poetic: Extol, glorify
Using Synonyms to Enrich Your Language
Expanding your vocabulary with words nearest in meaning to extol allows you to write and speak more expressively. Instead of repeatedly using the same word, you can choose different options that fit the tone, context, and formality level you need. This not only improves communication but also makes your writing more engaging and sophisticated.
Sample Sentences Using Variations
- The professorlaudedthe student’s research for its originality.
- The presidentcommendedthe soldiers for their bravery.
- Fansglorifythe actor’s every move on social media.
- Writers oftencelebratethe power of imagination through fiction.
The nearest in meaning of extol includes a variety of powerful verbs that share the core idea of offering praise or admiration. Words like praise, laud, commend, applaud, glorify, celebrate, and eulogize all carry this central message but with nuanced differences in tone and usage. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your communication and help you express appreciation in more specific and impactful ways. Whether you’re writing a formal speech, composing a heartfelt note, or simply talking with someone, knowing how and when to use these words gives you a stronger command of the English language.