赞扬 (zàn yáng) is a formal, positive verb meaning 'to praise highly' or 'to extol'—often used when expressing strong admiration for someone’s character, achievements, or moral qualities. The first character 赞 means 'to commend' or 'to approve', while 扬 means 'to raise up' or 'to publicize'; together, they convey the idea of lifting someone up through spoken or written approval. It’s commonly used in written contexts, speeches, news reports, and formal feedback—not in casual daily chat.

This word carries respectful, sincere connotations and often appears with subjects like teachers, heroes, volunteers, or exemplary students. It implies public recognition rather than private appreciation, and frequently co-occurs with phrases like '受到…的赞扬' (received praise from…) or '高度赞扬' (highly praised). Unlike more colloquial synonyms, 赞扬 avoids exaggeration or sarcasm—it’s consistently earnest and complimentary.