pat on the back
Meaning(s)
1. to give or receive praise
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
I got a pat on the back from my boss
Analysis
If you 'get a pat on the back' from someone it means that they have given you praise. This is an idiomatic expression used in a variety of contexts, but you might be more likely to hear it in informal settings. To get a pat on the back is the same as someone saying 'well done' or acknowledging your achievements.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I can't believe you managed to score that goal! You deserve a pat on the back.
- A big pat on the back to Mrs. Malone for preparing all of this wonderful food this evening.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I just came to give you a pat on the back for your work during this project. We never would have delivered the project on time without you all.
- Just because we managed to succeed, doesn't mean we should give ourselves a pat on the back. A lot of mistakes were made that we need to avoid in the future.