What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
happy
Example
I am so happy to see you again! [happy: adjective]
Example
She was happy with the results of her hard work. [happy: preposition]
pleased
Example
He was pleased with the outcome of the meeting. [pleased: adjective]
Example
She was pleased to hear the good news. [pleased: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Happy is a more common word than pleased in everyday language. It is used in a variety of contexts and situations. Pleased is less common and is usually reserved for more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between happy and pleased?
Pleased is a more formal word than happy. It is often used in professional or business settings to express satisfaction or approval. Happy, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
