Congratulations is a phrase often used to express joy or acknowledgment of someone’s achievement. The correct preposition to use with "congratulations" is "on," not "at" or "d." For example, you would say, "Congratulations on your promotion."
What Is the Correct Phrase: "Congratulations On" or "At"?
When expressing joy for someone’s achievement, the phrase "congratulations on" is grammatically correct. This preposition indicates the specific event or accomplishment being celebrated. For example, you might say, "Congratulations on your new job," or "Congratulations on passing your exams." Using "at" in this context is incorrect.
Why Do We Use "On" with Congratulations?
The preposition "on" is used because it connects the word "congratulations" to the specific event or achievement. It helps clarify what the congratulations are for. This usage is consistent with other similar phrases in English, such as "pride in" or "focus on," where the preposition links the sentiment to a particular subject.
Common Mistakes with "Congratulations"
Many people mistakenly use "at" or even "for" when following "congratulations." Here are some examples of incorrect usage and their correct forms:
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Incorrect: Congratulations at your success.
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Correct: Congratulations on your success.
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Incorrect: Congratulations for winning the award.
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Correct: Congratulations on winning the award.
Using the correct preposition ensures clarity and grammatical accuracy in your communication.
Examples of Using "Congratulations On" Correctly
To help illustrate the proper use of "congratulations on," here are some practical examples:
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Congratulations on your wedding!
This phrase celebrates the event of getting married. -
Congratulations on your graduation!
This phrase acknowledges the achievement of completing an academic program. -
Congratulations on your new home!
This phrase expresses joy for someone who has recently bought or moved into a new house.
Related Questions
Can You Say "Congratulations For"?
While "congratulations for" is sometimes used, it is less formal and not traditionally correct in standard English. "Congratulations on" is preferred in both written and spoken English to maintain formality and correctness.
Is It Correct to Say "Congratulations At"?
No, using "at" is incorrect in this context. The correct preposition is "on." "Congratulations at" does not convey the intended meaning of celebrating a specific event or achievement.
How Do You Use "Congratulations" in a Sentence?
To use "congratulations" in a sentence, follow it with "on" and the specific achievement. For example, "Congratulations on your excellent performance in the play."
What Are Some Synonyms for "Congratulations"?
Synonyms for "congratulations" include:
- Kudos
- Well done
- Hats off
- Bravo
These alternatives can be used to vary your expression of praise, though they may not always require a preposition.
How Can I Make My Congratulations More Personal?
To make your congratulations more personal, add a specific detail about the achievement or your personal connection to it. For example, "Congratulations on your promotion! I remember when we first started working together, and it’s incredible to see how far you’ve come."
Conclusion
Using "congratulations on" is the correct and widely accepted way to celebrate achievements in English. It is important to use the right preposition to convey your message clearly and accurately. Whether you’re writing a card, an email, or speaking in person, understanding this simple rule will help you communicate effectively. For more on language tips and grammar, explore articles on effective communication and common English mistakes.