An occasion or expression of happiness that recognizes something valued.
Reach for it when naming the gathering, ritual, or joyful response around a milestone or success
The reopening celebration filled the square with music and shared food.
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm |
|
| professional | |
| formal | |
| literary |
everyday
party
Fits when an informal social gathering is exactly what occurred
Careful A ceremony or private act of gratitude need not be a party.
warm
Fits when praise is directed toward a person or contribution
Careful A tribute can occur inside a celebration but does not name the whole occasion.
professional
Fits when a date or tradition is formally acknowledged
Careful An observance may be dutiful rather than happy.
formal
commemoration
Fits when remembrance gives the event its purpose
Careful Commemoration can be solemn and is not always joyful.
formal
festivity
Fits when lively enjoyment and special activities are prominent
Careful A quiet personal celebration may have no festive program.
literary
Fits when a major anniversary calls for grand communal joy
Careful The scale and ceremonial flavor are too large for ordinary good news.
literary
Fits when the emotional expression of joy matters most
Careful Rejoicing omits the planned event or milestone being marked.
birthday celebration
The birthday celebration included every resident of the care home.
community celebration
A community celebration welcomed the restored wetlands.
cause for celebration
The safe return of the crew was cause for celebration.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Association Shtooka, Judith Franck, British accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0 US Updated
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