B1noun1K

Pleasure

UK /["/ˈpleʒə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈpleʒər/"]/

Definition

a state of feeling or being happy or satisfied

In simple words: A feeling of happiness or enjoyment.

Examples

  • It gives me great pleasure to announce the winner of the competition.
  • Reading books is a pleasure that I indulge in every evening.
  • She smiled with pleasure when she received the surprise gift.
  • The pleasure of a warm bath after a long day cannot be overstated.
  • He took pleasure in helping others, often volunteering at the local shelter.

Usage notes

Use 'pleasure' in contexts of enjoyment or satisfaction. It's suitable for both formal and informal settings but may sound overly formal when used casually.

Grammar pattern

feel + pleasure

Memory hint

Imagine taking a moment to enjoy a favorite dessert – that feeling is pleasure!

Collocations

  • considerable
  • deep
  • enormous
  • bring (somebody)
  • give (somebody)
  • provide
  • for pleasure
  • with pleasure
  • pleasure at
  • business and pleasure
  • business or pleasure
  • etc.
  • considerable
  • deep
  • enormous
  • bring (somebody)
  • give (somebody)
  • provide
  • for pleasure
  • with pleasure
  • pleasure at
  • business and pleasure
  • business or pleasure
  • etc.
  • great
  • dubious
  • little
  • have
  • enjoy
  • forgo
  • boat
  • craft
  • cruise
  • the pleasures of life
  • the pleasures of the flesh
  • To what do I owe the pleasure?

Synonyms

  • enjoyment

Antonyms

  • pain
  • displeasure
  • sorrow

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'pleasurable' (adjective form).
  • Using 'pleasure' as a countable noun incorrectly.
  • Mistakenly using 'pleasure' in negative contexts.