What does graciously mean?
Graciously is an adverb meaning “in a gracious manner,” most often with the sense of acting courteously, kindly, and considerately. It is especially common in formal or diplomatic language: a person or organization “graciously accepts” an apology, invitation, or offer, or “graciously declines” something while leaving the other person’s dignity intact. The word can suggest generosity and tact rather than simple politeness, and in a slightly old-fashioned setting it may sound ceremonially polite. It can also carry an ironic edge, as when “graciously” indicates that someone has accepted an unpleasant development with conspicuous courtesy. Although related to the adjective gracious, graciously functions specifically as an adverb. A secondary, more literary use means “pleasingly” or “acceptably.” Its roots, inherited through French from Latin, connect it with grace, grateful, gratitude, and gratify. Graciously is especially useful when the manner of a response matters as much as the response itself.
adverbIn a courteous, kind, or tactful manner; more rarely, in a pleasing or acceptable manner.
- In a courteous, considerate, or tactful manner.
- In a pleasing or acceptable manner; literary and less common in modern usage.
"She graciously accepted the apology and continued the conversation."
"She graciously accepted the apology and continued the conversation."
"The modest garden was laid out so graciously that it seemed larger than it was."
Graciously is the diplomat’s art of saying yes—or no—without giving offence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does graciously come from?
Graciously is an English adverb formed from gracious with the suffix -ly. Gracious entered English through Old French from Latin gratia, which is related to gratus, meaning “pleasing,” “agreeable,” or “grateful.” The adverb had developed by the early modern period. Its relatives in French, Spanish, and Italian preserve the same Latin root.
How graciously is actually used
Formal and politely deferential, with a sense of generosity and tact. It may sound old-fashioned or ceremonially polite in some contexts, and it can be used ironically to suggest affected or insincere courtesy. The rarer meaning “pleasingly” or “acceptably” is chiefly literary.
Easily confused with graciously
Gracious is an adjective meaning kind, courteous, or thankful, whereas graciously is an adverb describing how such behaviour is expressed.