Inklingo

How to Say "praise" in Spanish

English → Spanish

aplauso

ah-PLOW-soh/aˈplau̯.so/

nounB1general
Use 'aplauso' when referring to public acclaim, applause, or enthusiastic approval, especially from a group or critics.
A shiny, classic golden trophy placed centrally on a small pedestal, symbolizing high praise or acclaim.

Examples

El nuevo libro recibió el aplauso unánime de la crítica especializada.

The new book received the unanimous acclaim of the specialized critics.

Su larga trayectoria profesional mereció el aplauso de sus colegas.

His long professional career deserved the praise of his colleagues.

enhorabuena

en-oh-rah-BWEH-nah/en.o.ɾaˈbwe.na/

nounB1formal
Use 'enhorabuena' to offer formal congratulations or express good wishes for a specific achievement or happy event.
A colorful storybook illustration showing three diverse individuals standing together, all clapping their hands and smiling, performing the act of congratulating someone.

Examples

Le di la enhorabuena por su nuevo negocio.

I gave him my congratulations on his new business.

Recibieron la enhorabuena del presidente de la compañía.

They received the congratulations from the company president.

Feminine Noun

When used with a verb, 'enhorabuena' acts as a feminine noun, meaning you must use the article 'la' before it: 'la enhorabuena'.

Preposition 'Por'

To state why someone is being congratulated, use the preposition 'por' (for): 'dar la enhorabuena por [la razón]'.

Aplauso vs. Enhorabuena

Learners often confuse 'aplauso' and 'enhorabuena' because both signify positive reception. Remember that 'aplauso' refers to public acclaim or applause, while 'enhorabuena' is specifically for congratulations or good wishes on a personal achievement.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.