What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pleasant
Example
The park was a pleasant place to spend the afternoon. [pleasant: adjective]
Example
She had a pleasant smile and a warm personality. [pleasant: adjective]
Example
The breeze made the temperature outside quite pleasant. [pleasant: adjective]
pleasing
Example
The painting was very pleasing to the eye. [pleasing: adjective]
Example
She had a pleasing voice that was easy to listen to. [pleasing: adjective]
Example
He did everything he could to be pleasing to his boss. [pleasing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pleasant is more common than pleasing in everyday language. Pleasant is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while pleasing is more specific and often used in formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pleasant and pleasing?
Pleasant is a neutral word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Pleasing, on the other hand, is more formal and often used in written or literary contexts.