credit/praise

[WilliamTaft]

Today we are talking about Ronald Reagan. He was president for two terms, and served from 1981 to 1989. Before that, he was the governor of California, worked as an actor and led a labor union.
As president, Reagan is credited for changing the direction of the country.

Source: VOA Learning English - America's Presidents - Ronald Reagan: Communicator

What's the difference if I say "praised" in this context?

 

[emsr2d2]

They mean different things. If someone is "credited with" doing something, it simply means that it's accepted/recognised that they did it. That has nothing to do with praise. "Credited with" is neutral.

For info, I find "is credited for" in the original wrong.

 

[SoothingDave]

I'm not sure why you think they're interchangable.

"Credited" means that someone was responsible for something and it is considered a positive.

"Praise" is a whole different thing, invoking ideas of worship or at least intense admiration.

 

[Tarheel]

I think "worship" is a bit strong there.

 

[SoothingDave]

People go to church to praise God.

 

[Tarheel]

OK.