were delighted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were delighted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express happiness or pleasure about something that has happened in the past. Example: "We were delighted to receive the news of your promotion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The Chinese were delighted.

The Economist

"They were delighted," he said.

The New York Times

"All we prisoners were delighted," Likhachev wrote.

The New Yorker

"We were delighted," Mr. Dahlback said.

The New York Times

We were delighted he was involved".

BBC

People were delighted in hearing him.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Obama was delighted: "Daughters!

The New Yorker

But I'm delighted".

The New York Times - Sports

I really am delighted.

The Guardian

I'm delighted!

The New Yorker

He's delighted".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "were delighted" to express genuine pleasure or satisfaction with an event, achievement, or outcome. Ensure the context clearly indicates the reason for the delight.

Common error

Avoid using "were delighted" excessively in highly formal or professional communications where a more subdued expression of satisfaction might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "were pleased" or "were satisfied".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were delighted" functions as a descriptive expression, indicating a state of happiness or pleasure experienced by a group of people. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is used to convey a positive emotional response to a particular event or situation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were delighted" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to convey happiness or pleasure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is well-received in a variety of contexts, primarily in news and media. While not as formal as "were pleased", it offers a strong and genuine way to express positive emotions. Alternatives like "were thrilled" or "were overjoyed" can be used to express even stronger feelings, while being mindful of the level of formality required by the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were thrilled

Expresses a higher degree of excitement or enthusiasm compared to "delighted".

were overjoyed

Implies an even greater level of happiness, often in response to very good news.

were very pleased

A more formal and reserved way of expressing happiness.

were elated

Suggests a feeling of great joy or triumph, often in a more elevated tone.

were happy

A simpler and more general way of expressing positive emotion.

were gratified

Implies satisfaction and pleasure, often related to an accomplishment or positive outcome.

were content

Highlights a state of peaceful happiness and satisfaction.

were appreciative

Emphasizes gratitude and thankfulness in addition to happiness.

were satisfied

Focuses on fulfillment and contentment, which might not always equate to strong delight.

were thankful

Expresses gratitude and appreciation for something received or experienced.

FAQs

What does "were delighted" mean?

The phrase "were delighted" expresses a feeling of great pleasure, satisfaction, or happiness about something that has happened.

How can I use "were delighted" in a sentence?

You can use "were delighted" to describe your positive reaction to an event. For example: "We were delighted to hear about your promotion."

Which is more formal, "were delighted" or "were pleased"?

"Were pleased" is generally considered more formal than "were delighted". You might use "were pleased" in professional or official communications.

What can I say instead of "were delighted"?

You can use alternatives such as "were thrilled", "were overjoyed", or "were very pleased" depending on the context.