pleasure - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
pleasure Word Meanings
- a feeling of enjoyment or satisfaction
- a source of enjoyment
- the state of being pleased
pleasure Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
pleasure Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈplɛʒə/
US
/ˈplɛʒər/
pleasure Word Etymology
The word 'pleasure' is derived from the Latin 'placere' (to please, satisfy) with its historical origin being Latin → Old French → English. Visualize a joyful scene where someone receives a delightful gift, feeling overwhelmed with happiness.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I start by moving my fingers, then I let a thought settle and shift my weight to sit a little taller. A warm glow changes in my chest as I notice something I enjoy, and a small smile begins to rise. I adjust my breathing and keep the pace steady, letting the moment grow into simple pleasure. In a chat or a task, that easy, controlled turn teaches me what I seek and how to savor it.
Real Context
Pleasure as a noun covers a feeling of enjoyment or satisfaction, a source of enjoyment, or the state of being pleased. It can describe both intangible experiences, like the pleasure of helping others, and tangible delights, such as a delicious meal. The word derives from Latin placere, passing through Old French into English. Learners often mix up pleasure with joy or happiness in everyday speech; common collocations include take pleasure in, for pleasure, and it is my pleasure to meet you in polite introductions. Understanding these nuances helps students choose between formal and informal contexts and pick the right intensity of sentiment.
Usage Reminders
- - Use take pleasure in to describe enjoying an activity.
- - PleaSure can refer to a feeling or a source of happiness.
- - In polite speech, phrases like it is my pleasure to meet you are common.
- - Distinguish pleasure from joy and happiness; they differ in formality and nuance.
- - Use great pleasure in formal announcements or introductions.
Common Misconceptions
- Pleasure always refers to physical sensation
- Pleasure is the same as happiness
- You can only feel pleasure from good things
- Pleasure is a sign of vanity or selfishness
- Pleasure cannot be used in formal settings
Thinking Differences
In English, pleasure often signals a positive feeling from experiences or gifts; it can be formal or neutral, and collocates with phrases like take pleasure in. Learners sometimes overgeneralize it to everyday joy, or think it only refers to physical sensation.
Learning Tips
- Learn take pleasure in and great pleasure as polite/formal usage.
- Differentiate pleasure from joy and happiness in nuance and tone.
- Practice phrases that show sources of pleasure, such as a source of pleasure.
- Use it is a pleasure to meet you in introductions.
- Combine pleasure with common contexts like gifts, experiences, and art.
- Record your own sentences to compare formal vs informal tone.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'pleasure'?
A.Excitement
B.Sorrow
C.Happiness
D.Anger
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences use 'pleasure' correctly?
A.He felt great displeasure after receiving the award.
B.The storm brought pleasure to the town.
C.Eating ice cream gives me pleasure.
D.She found no pleasure in reading the book.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a similar word to 'pleasure'?
A.Sadness
B.Fear
C.Joy
D.Anguish
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'pleasure'?
A.Displeasure
B.Excitement
C.Misery
D.Contentment
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'pleasure'?
A.She enjoyed the pleasure of hiking in nature.
B.He experienced extreme boredom while watching TV.
C.The meeting brought stress instead of joy.
D.The cooking class was a disaster.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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