What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lighthearted
Example
She has a lighthearted personality that makes everyone feel at ease. [lighthearted: adjective]
Example
The party had a lighthearted vibe with music and games. [lighthearted: adjective]
Example
He made a lighthearted comment about the weather to break the tension. [lighthearted: adjective]
cheerful
Example
She always has a cheerful disposition, even on a bad day. [cheerful: adjective]
Example
The cheerful music and decorations made the room feel festive. [cheerful: adjective]
Example
He greeted us with a cheerful smile and warm welcome. [cheerful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cheerful is more commonly used than lighthearted in everyday language. Cheerful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lighthearted is less common and refers to a specific type of carefree attitude.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lighthearted and cheerful?
Both lighthearted and cheerful are generally informal and friendly words that can be used in casual conversation. However, cheerful can also be used in more formal contexts to convey a positive and professional demeanor.