Are you wondering which is correct between 'congrats' vs.'congrates?' Well, you are in luck. I created this comprehensive guide with examples, definitions, and usage tips.
Need a quick answer?
Here it is:
Keep reading to find out exactly why 'congrats' is correct.
Between 'congrats' and 'congrates,' only one is a proper spelling. 'Congrats' is an abbreviation of 'congratulations.' There is no 'e' in the word. So, the correct spelling is 'congrats.'
Because 'congrats' is the only correctly spelled word, you would never use the second version.
However, how do you know when to use 'congrats?'
For example, you may hear someone say:
'Congrats' I just heard you were nominated for the Citizen of the Year award.
For example, I might use the word to say something like:
You have worked so hard in school. 'Congrats' on your graduation!
For example, people often say things like:
Congrats on winning the Powerball! That is so exciting!
For example, I might say:
Dear Mark,
We heard about your promotion from the board of directors. Your work on our project has been inspirational to the rest of the team, and we couldn't be happier for you. We wish you the best in your new role.
Congrats!
For example, you could use it in an email like this:
Dear Jennifer,
Congrats! I just heard the news about your job promotion. If anyone deserves the opportunity, it is you! You will be missed, but I am so happy for you.
I look forward to seeing the work you do in your new role!
Sincerely,
Amy
As you can see, there are many times when you can use 'congrats' to offer well wishes. However, be cautious about replying to a message with 'Congrats!' It can be rude or sarcastic in some situations.
'Congrats' is the shortened version of 'congratulations.' So, it is best used in informal or personal communications, like:
You may want to use 'congratulations' on more formal texts, like a message to your boss or a customer. Using the shortened version is less formal and could be taken wrong in some situations.
When you look up 'congrats' in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, there is no official entry. The word is a shortened version of 'congratulations,' which means:
It can also mean:
'Congrats' comes from the word congratulations, a derivative of the Latin words congratulationem and congratulari, which mean to wish joy. The first instances of the term appeared in the 1400s.
You now know that between 'congrats' vs. 'congrates,' 'congrats' is the only correct spelling. But do you know how to pronounce it?
Here is a little guide to help:
KEN-GRATZ
Now, look at the examples below using 'congrats' to ensure you know how to use it in conversation and a sentence.
At this point, you should thoroughly understand whether 'congrats' vs. 'congrates' is correct. However, here is a quick recap:
If you ever get confused by these two in the future, you can always come back here for a quick review. You can also check out the other confusing words guides here to learn about other commonly misused English words and phrases. Brushing up on these terms can help you gain a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanics of the English language and become a more confident writer.
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