praising someone in English

[GeneD]

Is there a word or phrase of approval when you call someone something? For example: You are a x. In Russian, we have such a word ("молодец"). It can be used very flexibly in various situations. If you've done something properly, you are a "молодец". If you sing/ dance/ play a musical instrument/ football well, you are a "молодец". Is there such a word or phrase suitable for such situations in English? I've learnt the expression "Good for you" recently, and it looks fairly flexible (in the way I've described above). Do you often use it? Maybe there are other expressions with the similar meaning? Do you have any equivalent to "молодец" in English (I hope my explanation of this word makes some sense to you )?

 

[teechar]

In colloquial English, I would use, for example, "You're a star" or "You're a legend".

 

[emsr2d2]

In colloquial English, I would use, for example, "You're star" or "You're a legend".

"You're a star" is common in BrE.

 

[bubbha]

Along the vein of "good for you" there are other forms of praise like:

Well done!
Good job!
Bravo!
You rock!

 

[teechar]

"You're a star" is common in BrE.

That's what I meant! I missed the "a".

 

[GeneD]

That's what I meant! I missed the "a".

Sorry, I don't understand. Did you omit "a" intentionally or accidentally?

 

[teechar]

Accidentally. Otherwise, the expression would not make sense. "Star" is a noun, not an adjective!

 

[GeneD]

"Star" is a noun, not an adjective!

That's what I thought at first: "is "star" here an adjective (some colloquialism) or was that a typo?" After emsr's post it was clear to me that's a typo, but then I simply didn't understand your #5 post (it happens occasionally I misunderstand something ). Now it's crystal clear. Thanks. Great expressions, by the way (post #2).

I'm asking myself now how many times I looked up the word "colloquialism" in a dictionary trying to spell it correctly. :-D

 

[Tarheel]

"You're the best!" is sometimes used.

 

[Tarheel]

"I value your advice" is a form of praise.

When used of a performer, "Amazing!", "Astounding!", and "Excellent!" are all words of praise.

"Exceptional!" is another one.

 

[GeneD]

What about praising children? Do you say anything like "You're a clever boy"?

I think everything (or almost everything) you all have said could be applied when praising children as well... But are there any common expressions being used specially for children?