Kudos
/ˈkuːdɒs/
nounB2
Definition
Kudos is a word used to show respect or praise to someone for doing something well. It means giving credit or saying "well done" for a success or achievement. People often say "kudos" when they want to recognize effort or accomplishment.
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See It in Action
Praise or recognition for achievement
- •Kudos to you for finishing the marathon!
- •She earned kudos from her boss for the excellent report.
- •The team received kudos after winning the championship.
Informal way to say "congratulations" or "good job"
- •Kudos on your promotion!
- •Everyone gave kudos to the speaker for the great presentation.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "kudos" like "praise" or "well done," but it feels a bit more special and formal
- ✓Picture a trophy or a medal given to someone after a good performance
- ✓It's the happy feeling when someone says your work is great or you did a good job
- ✓Sounds like "COO-dos" → imagine a cool bird (a "cooing" dove) giving you a thumbs-up for your success
- ✓Imagine a teacher saying "kudos" to a student who finished a big project well
- ✓NOT like "thanks" (which is for kindness or help), "kudos" is for success or achievement
- ✓NOT like "complaint" (negative), "kudos" is always positive and encouraging
Try Other Words
- •Compliments: nice words about someone's work or qualities (Use when the praise is more about personal qualities, not just achievement)
- •Congratulations: words to celebrate success (Use when you want to celebrate an event or success directly)
- •Recognition: official or public praise (Use when praise is formal or from an organization)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: (none - "kudos" is a whole word borrowed directly)
- •Etymology: From Greek "κῦδος" meaning "glory" or "fame"
- •Historical development: Originally used in English in the 19th century to mean praise or honor for achievement
- •Modern usage: Used mostly in informal or semi-formal speech and writing to give credit or say "well done"
Reflect & Connect
•How do you feel when you receive kudos for your work or effort? Does it motivate you to do more?
•Can kudos be given in different ways, like words, gifts, or awards? Which way feels best to you?
Fill in the blanks
1.She received kudos ___ her hard work on the project and the good results.
2.When the team won the game, the coach gave them kudos ___ their teamwork and effort.
3.Unlike a simple thank you, kudos is used to recognize ___ or success.
4.After the speech, everyone gave the speaker kudos ___ a job well done.
5.You usually get kudos ___ doing something difficult or important.
6.The manager's kudos made the employee feel ___ and appreciated.
7.Instead of complaining, try giving kudos ___ someone's good ideas or actions.