What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delight
Example
The children were filled with delight when they saw the colorful balloons. [delight: noun]
Example
I was delighted to receive your letter. [delighted: adjective]
joy
Example
The birth of their child brought them great joy. [joy: noun]
Example
She felt joyous when she heard the good news. [joyous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Joy is more commonly used than delight in everyday language. Joy is often associated with religious or spiritual contexts, but it is also used in various other contexts. Delight is less common and is often used in more formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delight and joy?
Delight is often used in more formal or literary contexts, while joy is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
