What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
satisfaction
Example
I felt a great sense of satisfaction after finishing my project. [satisfaction: noun]
Example
She smiled with satisfaction as she looked at her completed painting. [satisfaction: noun]
happiness
Example
The children's laughter filled the room with happiness. [happiness: noun]
Example
She was happy to see her old friend after so many years. [happy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Happiness is a more commonly used word than satisfaction in everyday language. Happiness is a broad and versatile term that covers a wide range of positive emotions, while satisfaction is more specific and often used in the context of achieving a goal or completing a task.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between satisfaction and happiness?
Both satisfaction and happiness can be used in formal and informal contexts, but satisfaction may be slightly more formal due to its association with achievement and success.