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be content
/bi kənˈtɛnt/
feel satisfied
After finishing the project, she was content to relax for the evening.
She felt satisfied and chose to rest without further demands.
formal
to feel satisfied with what one has; not desiring more or something else
He is content with his modest salary and simple lifestyle.
He feels satisfied with his current financial situation and way of living.
They were content to stay home rather than go out.
They preferred to remain at home and felt no need to leave.
Often used to describe acceptance of circumstances without complaint. The phrase emphasizes internal satisfaction rather than external rewards.
Collocations
be content withfeel satisfied about something specificseem contentappear to feel satisfiedfeel contentexperience a sense of satisfaction
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage with 'to'
Use 'be content to' to show willingness without desire for more: 'She was content to wait.' This implies acceptance of the situation.
Gold Rule
Avoid overuse of 'very'
Say 'very content' sparingly; 'quite content' or 'rather content' may sound more natural in formal writing.
Word Origin
The phrase combines the Old English 'be' (to exist) and Latin 'contentus' (satisfied), derived from 'continere' (to hold together). The sense of satisfaction dates back to Middle English.
Usage Notes
Used in both formal and informal contexts. Often followed by 'with' to specify the object of satisfaction. Avoid confusing with 'content' as a noun (meaning 'the things contained') or adjective (meaning 'satisfied').
Word Breakdown
be
to exist or feel in a certain way
verbcontent
satisfied or at peace
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary