unusually pleased

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unusually pleased" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a feeling of happiness or satisfaction that is greater than what is typically expected. Example: "After receiving the unexpected promotion, I was unusually pleased with the outcome of my hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

On an unusually bright morning earlier this year, that mayor, Ken Livingstone, strides into the room before a bank of cameras, and with an unusually pleased look on his dour face, announces a coup, one that has eluded dozens of large cities like New York, Los Angeles and Paris.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm not a person who draws, but I spent the afternoon sketching some stuff that I felt unusually pleased with.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Or pleased?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I am happy, pleased.

The New York Times - Sports

Ferlesch looked pleased, too.

The New Yorker

"He's very pleased".

The New York Times

Boulud was looking pleased.

The New Yorker

"Very pleased," Woods said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Pleased," the kid said.

The New Yorker

"Pleased?" he spluttered.

Independent

Very pleased with insight.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unusually pleased" to convey a sense of satisfaction that goes beyond the ordinary, suggesting a pleasant surprise or unexpected benefit.

Common error

While "unusually pleased" is acceptable, avoid overusing "unusually" in very formal writing. Consider more precise adjectives like "remarkably" or "exceptionally" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unusually pleased" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject to indicate a higher degree of satisfaction than typically expected. Ludwig examples show it used to describe someone's expression or feeling.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unusually pleased" is a grammatically sound adjectival phrase used to express a heightened sense of satisfaction, often tinged with surprise. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts. While appropriate for general use, more precise adjectives might be preferred in highly formal settings. Related phrases include "exceptionally delighted" and "remarkably satisfied", offering subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unusually content

Similar to "unusually pleased" but emphasizes a state of peaceful happiness.

remarkably satisfied

Stresses the unexpected level of satisfaction.

exceptionally delighted

Emphasizes a higher degree of happiness than "unusually pleased".

particularly gratified

Highlights a specific reason for satisfaction, more so than "unusually pleased".

overjoyed in an unexpected way

Combines both joy and surprise, with an emphasis on the unanticipated nature of the feeling.

noticeably contented

Focuses on a visible state of contentment, adding an observable aspect.

singularly gratified

Emphasizes the uniqueness of the satisfaction experienced.

pleasantly surprised

Highlights the element of surprise contributing to the pleasure.

uncommonly cheerful

Focuses more on the outward display of happiness.

thrilled beyond measure

Suggests an extreme level of joy, stronger than "unusually pleased".

FAQs

How can I use "unusually pleased" in a sentence?

You can use "unusually pleased" to describe a feeling of happiness that is greater than expected. For example, "I was "unusually pleased" with the outcome of the negotiation."

What's a good alternative to "unusually pleased"?

Alternatives include "particularly happy", "exceptionally satisfied", or "remarkably content", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "unusually pleased"?

Yes, "unusually pleased" is grammatically correct. It combines an adverb ("unusually") with an adjective ("pleased") to modify the adjective's meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "unusually pleased"?

It is appropriate when you want to express a level of happiness or satisfaction that is beyond the ordinary or expected. It suggests that the positive feeling is somewhat surprising or noteworthy.