What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
flattered
Example
I was flattered by the compliments I received on my presentation. [flattered: past tense]
Example
She felt flattered when her boss praised her work. [flattered: adjective]
pleased
Example
I am pleased with the progress we have made so far. [pleased: present tense]
Example
He was pleased to hear that he got the job. [pleased: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pleased is more commonly used than flattered in everyday language. Pleased is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while flattered is less common and refers to a specific type of positive emotion.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between flattered and pleased?
Both flattered and pleased can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but flattered may be seen as more formal due to its less frequent usage.
