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enjoy
/ɪnˈdʒɔɪ/
to take pleasure in
I enjoy reading books in the evening.
The speaker finds pleasure in reading books during the evening.
general
To take pleasure or satisfaction in something.
She enjoys hiking in the mountains.
The subject finds pleasure in walking in the mountains.
Do you enjoy classical music?
Do you find pleasure in listening to classical music?
Often used with gerunds (e.g., 'enjoy swimming') or nouns (e.g., 'enjoy the movie').
formal
To possess and benefit from something.
He enjoys good health.
He possesses and benefits from good health.
More common in formal or literary contexts.
Collocations
enjoy yourselfto have a good timeenjoy the momentto appreciate the present timeenjoy your meala polite phrase said before eating
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Mistake: Infinitives
Never use 'enjoy' with an infinitive verb (e.g., 'I enjoy to swim'). Always use a gerund (verb + -ing) or a noun after 'enjoy'.
Gold Rule
Collocation Rule
Common collocations with 'enjoy' include 'enjoy yourself,' 'enjoy the moment,' and 'enjoy your meal.' These are fixed expressions used in specific contexts.
Word Origin
From Old French 'enjoir' (to give joy to), from Latin 'injucundus' (not pleasant), via Old French 'enjoir' (to enjoy). The sense of 'to take pleasure in' emerged in the 14th century.
Usage Notes
1. 'Enjoy' is often followed by a noun or gerund (verb + -ing). 2. In imperative forms ('Enjoy your meal!'), it expresses a wish for someone to have a good experience. 3. Avoid using 'enjoy' with infinitives ('I enjoy to read' is incorrect; use 'I enjoy reading').
Word Breakdown
en-
prefix meaning 'in' or 'into'
prefix-joy
root meaning 'pleasure' or 'delight'
rootEnglish Dictionary