sing the praises of: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘sing the praises of’ mean?

The idiom "sing the praises of" means to highly praise or commend someone or something, typically in a public or prominent way.

Idiom Explorer

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The idiom "sing the praises of" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It means to enthusiastically speak or write about someone or something in a positive manner. This figurative use of "sing" adds a vivid and creative element to the idiom, allowing speakers and writers to express their admiration or approval in a more poetic way.

This idiom can be used in a wide range of situations. It is not specific to a particular context or subject matter, making it a flexible and adaptable phrase. Whether it's praising a person, an idea, or a product, the idiom "sing the praises of" can effectively convey sentiments of admiration and approval.

The versatility of this idiom is reflected in its widespread usage. It can be found in both formal and informal settings, such as literature, speeches, conversations, and written communications. The popularity of this idiom demonstrates its effectiveness in conveying positive emotions and uplifting others through words of praise.

The roots of the idiom "sing the praises of" can be traced back to at least the 18th century. While its exact origin is not precisely known, it has appeared in various written works of that era. Its long-standing presence in the English language showcases its enduring relevance and resonance.

They sing praises to their favorite singer.

Now, let's talk up the related idiom "talk up." This phrase is similar to "sing the praises of" in that it also means to speak highly and enthusiastically about someone or something. However, "talk up" is a more informal and colloquial expression. It is commonly used in conversations and everyday speech to express admiration or support.

When someone talks up a person, idea, or product, they are enthusiastically promoting it and highlighting its positive qualities. Similar to "sing the praises of," "talk up" helps create a positive and supportive social environment where appreciation and recognition are valued.

Now, let's move on to the related idiom "good job." This phrase is commonly used to express approval and acknowledgement of someone's accomplishments or efforts. When you tell someone "good job," you are acknowledging their hard work and praising their achievements.

"Good job" can be used in various contexts, such as at work, in sports, or in everyday life. It is a simple and direct way to show appreciation. Similar to "sing the praises of" and "talk up," "good job" contributes to fostering a positive and supportive social environment where praise and admiration are valued.

The idiom "sing the praises of" is a versatile and widely used expression in the English language. Its figurative meaning, flexibility, and widespread usage make it an effective phrase for expressing admiration and approval. Similarly, the related idioms "talk up" and "good job" also convey positive sentiments and contribute to creating a supportive social environment. These idioms invite individuals to celebrate the achievements and virtues of others and foster a society where praise and admiration are cherished.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom *sing the praises of* can be used in a sentence:

1. She always sings the praises of her favorite author, claiming that their books are life-changing.

2. The professor sang the praises of the student's research paper, stating that it was one of the best he had read in years.

3. The CEO's speech at the annual conference was filled with singing the praises of the company's recent achievements, highlighting their success in the market.

More "Praise" idioms