称える

• Reading: たたえる
• Romaji: tataeru
• Kanji breakdown: 称 (shō/tata) — praise, name, title
• Pronunciation: /ta.ta.e.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To praise; to extol; to laud; to celebrate someone's achievements or qualities.

A Group 2 (ichidan) transitive verb expressing strong praise or admiration. More elevated and formal than 褒める (to compliment). Used in ceremonies, speeches, news, and literature to honor achievements, heroism, or virtues. Often appears in the pattern ～を称えて (in praise of, in honour of).

Examples

1. 彼の勇気ある行動を称えたい。 I want to praise him for his courageous actions.
2. 優勝を称えてパレードが行われた。 A parade was held in celebration of the championship.
3. 功績を称えて表彰状が授与された。 A certificate of commendation was awarded in recognition of his achievements.

Usage Guide

Context: ceremonies, news, literature

Tone: laudatory

Origin & History

From the kanji 称 (praise, name, title), combining 禾 (grain) with 爾 (you/that). Originally related to weighing and measuring — evaluating and declaring something's worth publicly.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Professional