English Reference
adjective

happy

adj.
US /ˈhæpi/ UK /hˈæpi/ hap·py

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    feeling or showing pleasure and enjoyment.

    experiencing or manifesting pleasure, contentment, or joy.

    Simple

    The children were very happy when they saw the new playground.

    In context

    The research suggests that people who maintain strong social connections are generally more happy and resilient throughout their lives.

    Pitfall
    I am very happy for your success. I am very happy about your success.

    Use 'happy for' when referring to a person, but 'happy about' when referring to a situation or event.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    being satisfied with a choice or willing to do something.

    content or satisfied with a particular arrangement; willing to perform a specific action without objection.

    Simple

    I am happy to help you with your homework this evening.

    In context

    The client confirmed they were happy with the revised contract terms and were ready to sign the agreement immediately.

    Usage

    Often followed by a 'to' infinitive or the preposition 'with'.

  3. 03 A1 Beginner

    you use this to wish someone a good time on a special day.

    used in conventionalized formulas to express good wishes on the occasion of a festival or anniversary.

    Simple

    We all sang Happy Birthday to him when the cake arrived.

    In context

    The department sent out a mass email wishing all staff a Happy New Year before the office closed for the holidays.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced FormalLiterary

    happening in a lucky or good way.

    characterized by good fortune or being particularly apt for a situation.

    Simple

    It was a happy accident that we met at the station.

    In context

    By a happy coincidence, the two researchers had been working on identical problems from different mathematical perspectives.

    fortunateluckyfelicitous

Usage happy to bring

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated