celebrating

word · lemma: celebrate

/ˈsɛɫəˌbɹeɪtɪŋ/
SE-luh-BRAY-ding
/sˈɛləbɹˌeɪtɪŋ/
SE-luh-BRAY-ting

Definition

Doing something special to show happiness about an important event, success, holiday, or special day. It often involves parties, food, music, gifts, or time with other people.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used for happy occasions: 'celebrating a birthday', 'celebrating a win'. Common patterns are 'celebrate with', 'celebrate by + -ing', and 'celebrate together'. Don't confuse it with 'congratulating': you celebrate an event, but congratulate a person.

Example Sentences

We are celebrating my sister's birthday tonight.

basic

They are celebrating their team's big win.

basic

The family is celebrating a new baby.

basic

We're celebrating by going out for dinner after work.

natural

What are you celebrating? You look so happy.

natural

Even a small step forward is worth celebrating.

natural