Gratitude & Ingratitude: English Vocabulary List

to feel really grateful, particularly because something dangerous or unpleasant did not happen

"I thank my lucky stars."

"After narrowly avoiding the accident, she thanked her lucky stars that everyone was safe."

to try to appreciate and cherish all the good things one has in one's life

"We should count our blessings."

"Even though life is difficult sometimes, we should always count our blessings and appreciate what we have."

to be ungrateful to the person who has helped one by mistreating or betraying them

"Don't bite the hand."

"It is unwise to bite the hand that feeds you, because you may lose the support you depend on."

to look for faults in a gift, favor, or opportunity that has been given to one, in a way that shows ingratitude

"Don't look a gift horse in the mouth."

"She complained about the free laptop, but you shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth when someone is generous."

to use something in the most effective or productive way

"Make your vote count."

"With only one chance to impress the judges, she knew she had to make every second count."

to talk highly of someone as a way of helping them get an advantage, such as succeeding in a job interview

"Put in a good word for me."

"Could you put in a good word for me when you talk to the hiring manager tomorrow?"

to not appreciate a person or thing because one thinks one will never lose them

"Don't take love granted."

"Many people take their health for granted until they become seriously ill and realize how precious it truly is."