What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gratify
Example
Eating ice cream always gratifies my sweet tooth. [gratifies: verb]
Example
The success of the project gratified the team and their hard work. [gratified: past tense verb]
delight
Example
The children were delighted with the surprise party. [delighted: adjective]
Example
The new restaurant delighted us with its delicious food and cozy atmosphere. [delighted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gratify is less common than delight in everyday language, but it is still a useful word to know for formal writing or speaking. Delight is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gratify and delight?
Gratify is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as academic writing or professional settings, while delight is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as casual conversations or personal writing.
