Honour vs. Praise — What's the Difference?

A quality that commands deep respect or esteem.

The expression of admiration or approval.

A privilege of being highly respected.

To express warm approval or admiration of.

High respect; great esteem.

Approval expressed especially by clapping or cheers.

A mark of distinction.

Words that commend someone's actions.

Adherence to what is right.

Acknowledgment of the merit of someone's qualities or achievements.

Honour (British English) or honor (American English; see spelling differences) is the idea of a bond between an individual and a society as a quality of a person that is both of social teaching and of personal ethos, that manifests itself as a code of conduct, and has various elements such as valour, chivalry, honesty, and compassion. It is an abstract concept entailing a perceived quality of worthiness and respectability that affects both the social standing and the self-evaluation of an individual or institution such as a family, school, regiment or nation.

Praise as a form of social interaction expresses recognition, reassurance or admiration. Praise is expressed verbally as well as by body language (facial expression and gestures).

High respect; great esteem

Express warm approval or admiration of

The quality of knowing and doing what is morally right

Express one's respect and gratitude towards (a deity), especially in song

Something regarded as a rare opportunity and bringing pride and pleasure; a privilege

The expression of approval or admiration for someone or something

An ace, king, queen, jack, or ten.

The expression of respect and gratitude as an act of worship

Regard with great respect

Expression of approval, commendation, or admiration.

Fulfil (an obligation) or keep (an agreement)

The extolling or exaltation of a deity, ruler, or hero.

Variant of honor.

(Archaic) A reason for praise; merit.

(uncountable) recognition of importance or value; respect; veneration of someone, usually for being morally upright or successful.

To express warm approval of, commendation for, or admiration for.

(uncountable) The state of being morally upright, honest, noble, virtuous, and magnanimous; excellence of character; the perception of such a state; favourable reputation; dignity.

To express a feeling of veneration or gratitude to (a deity); worship or glorify.

(countable) A token of praise or respect; something that represents praiseworthiness or respect, such as a prize or award given by the state to a citizen.

Commendation; favourable representation in words.

A privilege.

Worship.

(in the plural) The privilege of going first.

To give praise to; to commend, glorify, or worship.

(golf) The right to play one's ball before one's opponent.

To commend; to applaud; to express approbation of; to laud; - applied to a person or his acts.

A cause of respect and fame; a glory; an excellency; an ornament.

To extol in words or song; to magnify; to glorify on account of perfections or excellent works; to do honor to; to display the excellence of; - applied especially to the Divine Being.

(feudal law) A seigniory or lordship held of the king, on which other lordships and manors depended.

To value; to appraise.

In bridge, an ace, king, queen, jack, or ten especially of the trump suit. In some other games, an ace, king, queen or jack.

Commendation for worth; approval expressed; honor rendered because of excellence or worth; laudation; approbation.

(in the plural) (Courses for) an honours degree: a university qualification of the highest rank.

Especially, the joyful tribute of gratitude or homage rendered to the Divine Being; the act of glorifying or extolling the Creator; worship, particularly worship by song, distinction from prayer and other acts of worship; as, a service of praise.

Standard spelling of honor

The object, ground, or reason of praise.

Same as honor; - chiefly British usage.

An expression of approval and commendation;

The state of being honored

Offering words of homage as an act of worship;

A tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction;

Express approval of;

The quality of being honorable and having a good name;

A woman's virtue or chastity

Bestow honor or rewards upon;

Show respect towards;

Accept as pay;

Through notable contributions to society, upholding strong moral values, or achieving significant milestones.

Yes, consistent praise and recognition can contribute to someone being honoured, especially in professional or community settings.

Honour is about deep respect and esteem, often long-lasting and related to one’s character or achievements; praise is an expression of approval, typically momentary and specific to certain actions.

Praise can be expressed verbally, through written compliments, or gestures like clapping.

Yes, because honour usually affects one's legacy and social standing more profoundly than transient praise.

Generally, honour is viewed positively, but it can be controversial if linked to outdated or harmful societal values.

The reception of praise can vary depending on the context and the cultural norms of the audience.

While typically positive, praise can be seen as insincere or patronizing if not given genuinely.

Yes, praise is crucial for motivation and morale in the workplace.

Cultural perceptions of honour can vary widely, with some cultures placing immense value on personal and family honour.

Yes, honour often intersects with ethical behavior and integrity.

Honour is typically awarded by institutions, organizations, or collective entities within a community.

Yes, individuals may decline honours for personal or ethical reasons.

Yes, praise is often informal and can occur casually in everyday interactions.

Honour can manifest in titles, awards, public acknowledgments, or ceremonial roles.