ENGLISH
REFERENCE

delighted

adj. · v.
US //dɪˈɫaɪtəd// UK //dɪlˈaɪtɪd// de·light·ed
  1. 1 very happy (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    very happy and pleased about something.

    feeling or showing great pleasure or satisfaction. Often used as a predicative adjective followed by a 'to' infinitive or a 'that' clause.

    Example

    We were delighted with the results of our hard work.

    Example

    The board members were delighted by the unexpected increase in quarterly revenue, which exceeded even their most optimistic projections.

    Usage

    Commonly followed by the prepositions 'with', 'by', or 'at'.
    Pitfall
    I am very delighted with the news.
    I am absolutely delighted with the news.

    Delighted is an extreme adjective. Use 'absolutely' or 'really' instead of 'very' to add emphasis.

  2. 2 gave great pleasure (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the past action of giving someone great pleasure or making them very happy.

    the past tense of the transitive verb meaning to please someone greatly.

    Example

    The magician's clever tricks delighted the children at the party.

    Example

    The soloist's masterful interpretation of the concerto delighted the audience, earning her a standing ovation that lasted several minutes.

    Usage

    As a verb, it takes a direct object.

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