grateful
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡrˈeɪtfəl/
US
- /ˈɡreɪtfəl/
Description
- thankful
- appreciative
- full of thanks
To be grateful is to feel thankful for something good that has happened, or for someone who has done something kind for you. It's more than just saying "thank you"; it's a warm feeling in your heart. You might be grateful for a sunny day after a week of rain, or grateful for the support of a friend during a difficult time. A grateful person acknowledges the good things in their life and doesn't take them for granted. Think about a child being grateful for a birthday present – their eyes light up with joy!
Gratitude is a deep feeling of thankfulness and appreciation. It's more than just politeness; it's an emotional response to receiving something positive, whether it's a gift, a kind gesture, or simply the good fortune of experiencing something pleasant. You might feel grateful for your health, your family, opportunities you've been given, or even small everyday joys like a warm cup of coffee on a cold morning.
The feeling of gratitude can be expressed in many ways – through words ("Thank you so much!"), actions (returning a favor), or simply by holding a positive and appreciative mindset. Some cultures have specific traditions for expressing gratitude, like giving gifts or offering prayers.
Interestingly, studies show that practicing gratitude can actually improve your well-being! Taking time to reflect on the things you're grateful for can boost happiness, reduce stress, and strengthen relationships. It's a powerful emotion that connects us to others and helps us appreciate the richness of life. Think about someone who has overcome hardship – often, they express immense gratitude for even the simplest blessings. To be truly grateful is to recognize the good in your life and cherish it deeply.
Examples
- 1
New start
I’m grateful for the chance to start again in a new city.
- 2
Thanking people
She was grateful to her neighbors for checking on her father while she was away.
Pattern
grateful to + person for + action
thankful toward that person because of what they did
- 3
Good outcome
We were grateful that nobody was seriously hurt in the accident.
Pattern
grateful that + clause
thankful about a situation or result
- 4
Job search
After months of searching, he felt grateful just to have a steady job.
- 5
Facial expression
She gave him a grateful smile before getting into the car.
- 6
Polite request
I’d be grateful if you could let me know your decision by Friday.
Usage
I’d be grateful if ...
a polite way to ask for something
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- gratefuladjective