What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
elated
Example
She was elated when she found out she got the job. [elated: adjective]
Example
Winning the championship left the team feeling elated. [elated: verb]
overjoyed
Example
I was overjoyed to see my family after so long. [overjoyed: adjective]
Example
The children were overjoyed when they saw the presents under the tree. [overjoyed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overjoyed is less common than elated in everyday language, but both words are still used frequently to describe feelings of happiness and excitement.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between elated and overjoyed?
Elated is generally considered more formal than overjoyed, and is often used in academic or professional writing. However, both words can be used in a variety of contexts and levels of formality.
