Synonym Chooser

How does the noun encomium differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of encomium are citation, eulogy, panegyric, and tribute. While all these words mean "a formal expression of praise," encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing.

received encomiums from literary critics

When would citation be a good substitute for encomium?

The words citation and encomium are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, citation applies to the formal praise of a person offered in a military dispatch or in awarding an honorary degree.

earned a citation for bravery

In what contexts can eulogy take the place of encomium?

While in some cases nearly identical to encomium, eulogy applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person.

delivered the eulogy at the funeral service

When could panegyric be used to replace encomium?

In some situations, the words panegyric and encomium are roughly equivalent. However, panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment.

her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor

When can tribute be used instead of encomium?

While the synonyms tribute and encomium are close in meaning, tribute implies deeply felt praise conveyed either through words or through a significant act.

the concert was a musical tribute to the early jazz masters

Examples of encomium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Unlike conservative politicians in the United States, these foreign leaders don’t even need to bother with mouthing encomiums to concepts like tolerance, freedom, and democracy. Franklin Foer, The Atlantic, 1 Mar. 2024 Yet a routine encomium to Lewis’s achievements and influence would ignore the import of his scholarly writings, which resist the usual narratives of individual genius. Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 8 Jan. 2024 The Other One, an encomium to Weir on Netflix; next came 2017’s Long Strange Trip, which premiered at Sundance and was executive-produced by Martin Scorsese. Jeff Weiss, Spin, 21 Aug. 2023 Advertisement Many Dutch paintings are encomia to cities, particularly Delft, where so many of the greatest artists lived and worked. Becca Rothfeld, Washington Post, 28 June 2023 See all Example Sentences for encomium 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'encomium.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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Cite this Entry

“Encomium.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/encomium. Accessed 24 Oct. 2024.

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