What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contently
Example
She sat contently on the porch, enjoying the warm sun on her face. [contently: adverb]
Example
He lived contently in his small apartment, appreciating the simple things in life. [contently: adverb]
happily
Example
She smiled happily as she opened the gift from her friend. [happily: adverb]
Example
He happily accepted the job offer, excited for the new opportunity. [happily: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Happily is more commonly used than contently in everyday language. Happily is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contently is less common and refers to a more specific feeling of satisfaction and acceptance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contently and happily?
Both contently and happily can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.