What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gladness
Example
I felt a sense of gladness when I received the good news. [gladness: noun]
Example
She expressed her gladness at being reunited with her family. [gladness: noun]
delight
Example
The children were filled with delight when they saw the presents under the tree. [delight: noun]
Example
He was delighted to hear that he got the job. [delighted: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Delight is more commonly used than gladness in everyday language. Delight is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gladness is less common and refers to a more subdued form of happiness.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gladness and delight?
Gladness is typically associated with a more formal tone, while delight is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.