Filled with happiness so strong that it is difficult to contain.
Reach for it when describing an intense joyful reaction to welcome news or reunion
The grandparents were overjoyed when the missing terrier bounded through the gate.
| playful | |
|---|---|
| everyday | |
| warm |
|
| professional | |
| formal | |
| literary |
playful
Fits when amused pleasure suits a light informal note
Careful It is far too mild for a life-changing reunion or recovery.
everyday
Fits when excitement is as important as happiness
Careful Thrilled can describe anticipation, while overjoyed usually answers good news.
warm
Fits when strong pleasure should sound graceful and controlled
Careful It may be too restrained for joy that visibly overwhelms someone.
professional
Fits when an unusually elevated emotional state is literally intended
Careful It can suggest a temporary or medically relevant state rather than simple joy.
formal
Fits when the emotion reaches an almost rapturous peak
Careful The intensity can sound theatrical for quiet but profound happiness.
formal
Fits when happiness is public, triumphant, and celebratory
Careful Choose another word for private joy with no victory involved.
literary
Fits when success or relief creates a lifted feeling
Careful It sounds more formal and less affectionate in a personal message.
literary
Fits when happiness is visible in someone's expression
Careful Radiant describes appearance and may not capture the full inner intensity.
absolutely overjoyed
We were absolutely overjoyed to hear that the surgery had gone well.
overjoyed at the news
Kai was overjoyed at the news that his sister could visit.
overjoyed to see
The children were overjoyed to see their drawings hanging in the gallery.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Vealhurl, Southern England accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated
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