on happy terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on happy terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a friendly or amicable relationship between people or groups. Example: "Despite their differences, they managed to remain on happy terms throughout the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

We're on happy terms again.

The New Yorker

At the end of Cymbeline, Shakespeare conjures a confident, united Britain on happy terms with the continental superpower.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

He's killing time till his evening "date" with Stella Rodney, the novel's protagonist, an attractive, independent woman "on happy sensuous terms with life" who works for a government agency called XYD and is described as a "camper in rooms of draughty dismantled houses".

The Guardian - Books

McCarthy has said, "We did not part on the happiest of terms".

The New Yorker

I would be quite happy for all the players signed on short-term contracts and on loan deals to leave.

BBC

Put on some happy music.

WikiHow

That probably leaves Pérez as the Mets' final high-profile signing of the winter, a move they are happy with, on their terms.

The New York Times - Sports

If the government is comfortable that the human price of stopping the boats is justified, if it really believes what it says about refugees running businesses and building a happy long-term future on Nauru, why not let the public see the full picture?

The Guardian

Focus on happier memories.

WikiHow

Walking-on-sunshine happy.

Huffington Post

If only all spam was true, eh? I'd be rich, happy and be on good terms with the wife of an ex-Nigerian president, who'd just handed me millions in exchange for my bank details. 3 min: A great start from Ireland, all hustle and streetwise bustle.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on happy terms" to describe a situation where individuals or groups maintain a positive and friendly relationship, especially after a potential conflict or disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "on happy terms" in contexts that require stronger expressions of affection or deep emotional connection. The phrase is more suitable for describing professional or formal relationships that are positive but not necessarily intimate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on happy terms" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, describing the state of a relationship. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable, as seen in the examples from the New Yorker and The Guardian.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on happy terms" describes a friendly or amicable relationship. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and usable. While somewhat rare in usage, it's suitable for various contexts, leaning towards neutral formality. It's most frequently found in news and media, and a good alternative is to use the phrase ""on good terms"". Remember to use this phrase to illustrate positive relationships without implying deep emotional connections.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on good terms

This alternative uses a more common and straightforward expression for a friendly relationship.

in a friendly relationship

This option replaces the idiomatic phrase with a more descriptive expression, emphasizing the relationship itself.

on amicable terms

This alternative uses a more formal synonym, 'amicable', to describe the relationship.

in a harmonious relationship

This phrase shifts the focus slightly to the harmony within the relationship.

on cordial terms

This option uses 'cordial', suggesting a polite and friendly but not necessarily intimate relationship.

in a state of amity

This is a more formal and less common way of saying that two parties are friendly.

in friendly accord

This phrase suggests agreement and friendliness between parties.

maintaining a positive rapport

This alternative highlights the ongoing effort to keep the relationship positive.

with a positive relationship

This emphasizes the existence of a positive connection without specifying the level of interaction.

with mutual goodwill

This focuses on the positive intentions and feelings each party holds for the other.

FAQs

What does "on happy terms" mean?

The phrase "on happy terms" means having a friendly or amicable relationship with someone. It suggests a positive interaction or understanding between individuals or groups.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "on happy terms"?

It's appropriate to use "on happy terms" when describing a positive and friendly relationship, especially after a potential conflict or disagreement. For example, "Despite their initial disagreements, they are now "on good terms"".

What are some alternative phrases to "on happy terms"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""on good terms"", "in a friendly relationship", or "on amicable terms". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "on happy terms" more formal or informal?

The phrase "on happy terms" leans toward a neutral to slightly formal tone. While not overly formal, it's suitable for professional contexts. However, phrases like ""on good terms"" are more common in general conversation.