A1verb1K

Enjoy

UK /["/ɪnˈdʒɔɪ/","/ɪnˈdʒɔɪz/","/ɪnˈdʒɔɪd/","/ɪnˈdʒɔɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪnˈdʒɔɪ/","/ɪnˈdʒɔɪz/","/ɪnˈdʒɔɪd/","/ɪnˈdʒɔɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to get pleasure from something

In simple words: to like or take pleasure in something

Examples

  • I really enjoy reading novels in my free time.
  • She said she will enjoy the concert next week.
  • We enjoy going to the beach during summer.
  • He enjoys playing soccer with his friends every weekend.
  • Do you enjoy cooking new recipes?

Usage notes

Use 'enjoy' when talking about activities or experiences that are pleasurable. It’s appropriate in both spoken and written contexts but is more common in casual conversation. Avoid in overly formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

enjoy + object

Memory hint

Think of 'enjoy' as joining a fun activity; you say 'en-joy' when having fun.

Collocations

  • enormously
  • greatly
  • hugely
  • be able to
  • seem to
  • begin to
  • enjoy yourself
  • just enjoy it/​something
  • enormously
  • greatly
  • hugely
  • be able to
  • seem to
  • begin to
  • enjoy yourself
  • just enjoy it/​something

Synonyms

  • appreciate
  • relish
  • savor
  • love
  • adore

Antonyms

  • dislike
  • hate
  • detest

Common mistakes

  • Using 'enjoy' with gerunds incorrectly; it should be 'enjoy doing' not 'enjoy to do'.
  • Confusing the use of 'enjoy' with 'like' although they have similar meanings, 'enjoy' often implies a deeper appreciation.
  • Omitting the object of 'enjoy' can lead to incomplete sentences.