pleasant
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /plˈɛzənt/
US
- /ˈplɛzənt/
Description
- Enjoyable
- agreeable
- nice to be around
- giving quiet happiness
Think of a warm summer breeze, a good book, or time with someone you care about - these are all pleasant experiences. To be pleasant means to give a feeling of calm happiness and comfort. It is about things that feel good and make you smile. A pleasant person is friendly, kind, and easy to get along with. You might describe a beautiful garden as "a pleasant sight," or say someone has a "pleasant manner." It is more than just nice; it suggests real enjoyment.
Sometimes, "pleasant" can also soften what you mean - like saying the weather was "pleasant enough" when it was not perfect, but still fine. So, whether you are describing a feeling, a person, or a situation, pleasant usually points to something positive and enjoyable.
The word pleasant describes something that is enjoyable, agreeable, or gives pleasure to the senses or the mind. It goes beyond simply being "okay" - it suggests a real sense of satisfaction and well-being. For example, "We spent a pleasant afternoon strolling through the park" implies that the walk was relaxing and enjoyable.
A pleasant person is typically friendly, kind, and easy to be around. They have a warm and agreeable personality that makes others feel comfortable. You might say, "She's always so pleasant and helpful," meaning she consistently displays positive qualities.
The context of "pleasant" can also subtly shift its meaning. While often used for strong enjoyment, it can sometimes indicate mild satisfaction or acceptance. Saying "The movie was pleasant enough" suggests it wasn't groundbreaking, but still enjoyable in a simple way. Similarly, "a pleasant temperature" might mean comfortably warm rather than exceptionally hot.
Historically, "pleasant" comes from the Old French word plaisant, meaning pleasing or agreeable, and that core idea of giving joy and satisfaction remains at its heart.
So whether you're describing a beautiful scene, a kind person, or a comfortable experience, pleasant is all about things that bring happiness and contentment.
Examples
- 1
Leisure walk
We had a pleasant walk along the river after dinner.
- 2
Room quality
The room was bright, clean, and pleasant to sit in.
- 3
Good news
It was pleasant to hear that everyone arrived safely.
- 4
Hospitality
The hotel staff were pleasant and helpful.
- 5
Family politeness
Please try to be pleasant to your brother, even if you're annoyed.
Pattern
be pleasant to + person
speak or behave kindly toward them
- 6
Unexpected news
The news came as a pleasant surprise.
Phrase
pleasant surprise
a good thing you did not expect
- 7
Working with people
I like working with Marta because she is pleasant to be around.
- 8
Mild approval
The cafe was pleasant enough, but I wouldn't go out of my way to return.
Phrase
pleasant enough
okay, but not especially good
- 9
Difficult meeting
The meeting wasn't exactly pleasant, but we managed to solve the problem.
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- pleasantadjective
Forms
- pleasantercomparativeadjective
- pleasantestsuperlativeadjective