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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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brighten someone's day

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

It's such an easy way to brighten someone's day by mailing a package with love".

News & Media

Vice

Although the results can seem amateurish, viewers can see how these utilitarian creations could truly brighten someone's day.

News & Media

The New York Times

For anyone left holding these companies' stock after their executives and insiders cashed out, there is no gold, not even silver -- just handsome stock certificates that will brighten someone's day on eBay.

News & Media

The New York Times

For friends, Gifi is just a fun way to brighten someone's day.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Hopefully, if anything, this public display can brighten someone's day.

News & Media

Vice

You'll never regret going out of your way to brighten someone's day.

News & Media

Huffington Post
Show more...

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Each little click or tap expends almost no time or effort or social capital, yet it brightens someone's day, makes them feel appreciated, and inspires them to keep tweeting.

News & Media

TechCrunch

A tight budget shouldn't keep us from brightening someone's day.

News & Media

Huffington Post

We love brightening someone's day by them just being able to take a look through a website or a magazine.

News & Media

Huffington Post

I am always grateful for his kind words, but I felt that there was a lot more going on that day than simply brightening someone's day with a song or two.

News & Media

Huffington Post

You'll also be brightening someone's day, and they may return the favor in the future.

Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "brighten someone's day" when you want to express the act of making someone feel happier or more positive through small gestures or actions.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid using "brighten someone's day" in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more professional alternatives like 'improve morale' or 'enhance well-being'.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

77%

Authority and reliability

4.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brighten someone's day" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes the action of making someone happier or more cheerful. The Ludwig examples showcase its usage in various contexts, from simple acts of kindness to more significant gestures.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "brighten someone's day" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that describes the act of making someone feel happier or more positive. As Ludwig's examples show, it's versatile and applicable in many situations. While generally neutral to informal, be mindful of the context and opt for more formal alternatives when necessary. Remember that small acts of kindness can indeed "brighten someone's day", reflecting the phrase's positive and uplifting connotation. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media and Wiki content.

FAQs

How can I "brighten someone's day"?

Small acts of kindness, such as offering a compliment, helping with a task, or simply sharing a smile, can "brighten someone's day".

What is a more formal alternative to "brighten someone's day"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like 'enhance someone's well-being' or 'uplift someone's spirits' as alternatives to "brighten someone's day".

Is "brighten someone's day" appropriate in professional emails?

Yes, "brighten someone's day" can be suitable in professional emails, especially when expressing gratitude or offering encouragement. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone of the communication. For a more formal alternative, consider using phrases like "enhance someone's well-being".

How does "brighten someone's day" differ from "make someone's day"?

"Brighten someone's day" implies adding a positive spark or moment, while "make someone's day" suggests a more significant, overall positive impact. They are largely interchangeable, but "brighten" emphasizes a smaller, more immediate effect.

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Source & Trust

77%

Authority and reliability

4.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: