What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contentment
Example
She found contentment in the simple pleasures of life. [contentment: noun]
Example
He lived a life of contentment, never wanting more than what he had. [contentment: noun]
happiness
Example
Her happiness knew no bounds when she got the job offer. [happiness: noun]
Example
He was happy to see his old friend after so many years. [happy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Happiness is more commonly used than contentment in everyday language. Happiness is a broad term that covers a wide range of positive emotions, while contentment is a more specific emotion that is less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contentment and happiness?
Both contentment and happiness can be used in formal and informal contexts, but contentment may be perceived as more formal due to its less common usage.
