Is it ok to say congratulations to a woman who's gotten engaged?

Answer 1

== == * Most certainly it's OK to say congratulations to a woman who has just gotten engaged. It would make her feel great to know others are sharing in her happiness. === === * While congratulations has always been an expression of joy at another's good fortune or happiness it also includes praise for the achievement of something significant or arduous to attain and it is not thought proper to imply that a woman's finding a man to marry represents for her a significant or difficult achievement. According to Classical etiquette, therefore, you wish an engaged woman "every happiness"; but you congratulate her fiancé.

Answer 2

Tell the woman (if you know her fairly well) that you are very excited to hear of her engagement and say, 'Congratulations and I wish you all the happiness in the world.' If you don't know her well just say, 'Congratulations on your engagement.'

Answer 3

Traditionally, only the man is to be congratulated, having won the supposed "prize" of his intended's hand in marriage. You only express your "delight" and well-wishes to the lady.