01
preisen
to praise
To praise, extol, or glorify someone or something in elevated language.
example
In vielen alten Gedichten wird die Schönheit der Natur gepriesen.
In many old poems, the beauty of nature is praised.
preisen
to praise
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'preisen' (to praise) is related to the noun 'der Preis' (price/prize). Originally, it meant to determine the value of something, from which today's meaning 'loben' (to praise) or 'rühmen' (to extol) developed.
EXAMPLE
Der Dichter preist die Liebe als höchste Tugend.
The poet praises love as the highest virtue.
Elevated style
'Preisen' (to praise) is a word used in elevated language and often appears in literature, poems, or ceremonial speeches. It is uncommon in normal everyday speech.
EXAMPLE
Die Heldentaten des Ritters wurden in Liedern gepriesen.
The knight's heroic deeds were praised in songs.
Fixed expression
The expression 'sich glücklich preisen' (to count oneself lucky) is a fixed reflexive construction. Here the verb is always combined with 'sich' (oneself) and the adjective 'glücklich' (happy/lucky).
EXAMPLE
Er konnte sich glücklich preisen, den Unfall überlebt zu haben.
He could count himself lucky to have survived the accident.
Use in commerce
In commercial contexts, 'preisen' (to promote/tout) is often used as part of the separable verb 'anpreisen' (to advertise/tout). It describes a seller's promotional praise of goods.
EXAMPLE
Auf dem Markt preisen die Händler lautstark ihre Waren an.
At the market, the vendors loudly promote their goods.
Compare with
preisen vs feiern
to celebrate
'feiern' and 'preisen' can both mean presenting someone or something very positively. 'feiern' often sounds lively, loud, and enthusiastic, for example among fans, online, or after a success. 'preisen' is more elevated and solemn. It is more likely to be used in speeches, texts, or religious and very formal contexts. In everyday language, people usually say 'jemanden feiern' when many people react enthusiastically. 'preisen' fits better when the praise sounds especially dignified or strong.
preisen
In seiner Rede preist der Bürgermeister den Mut der Helfer.
In his speech, the mayor praises the courage of the helpers.
feiern
Nach dem Sieg feiern die Fans ihre Mannschaft auf dem Platz.
After the victory, the fans celebrate their team on the field.
In real life
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