pleasure

/ˈplɛʒər/
nounIntermediate
formalinformal

A feeling of happy satisfaction and enjoyment

She took great pleasure in reading books.

She enjoyed reading books very much.

It's my pleasure to help you.

I'm happy to assist you.

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Often used with 'take pleasure in' or 'for the pleasure of'

formalinformal

Something that gives enjoyment or satisfaction

The concert was a pure pleasure.

The concert was purely enjoyable.

He derived pleasure from simple things.

He found happiness in simple things.

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Can be used as a countable noun in this sense

Collocations

take pleasure into enjoy doing somethingfor the pleasure ofbecause it is enjoyablederive pleasure fromto get enjoyment from

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

pleasure principlephrase
the idea that people seek pleasure and avoid pain
pleasure domephrase
a luxurious building or place of entertainment

💡Pro Tip

Countable vs. Uncountable

Use 'a pleasure' for specific instances (e.g., 'It was a pleasure to meet you') and 'pleasure' without an article for general enjoyment (e.g., 'She takes pleasure in cooking').

Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

In formal contexts, 'pleasure' often implies a more refined or intellectual enjoyment, while in informal contexts, it can refer to any enjoyable experience.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'plaisure', from Old French 'plaisir', from Latin 'placere' (to please)

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as both a countable and uncountable noun. In formal contexts, it often implies a refined or intellectual enjoyment.

Word Breakdown

pleas
related to pleasing
root
+
-ure
noun suffix
suffix
English Dictionary