← Dictionary

bursting-with-joy

/ˈbɜːs.tɪŋ wɪð dʒɔɪ/
IELTSAcademic
idiom

Very full of happiness or excitement. It describes a strong feeling that seems too big to keep inside.

  • She was bursting with joy after the news.
  • His face was bursting with joy.

Adinary Nuance

Bursting with joy is stronger and more vivid than happy or pleased. It sounds emotional and expressive, while delighted is a little more polished and calm. Writers choose it when they want to show joy that feels almost impossible to contain.

In other languages

Vietnamese
vui sướng
Spanish
rebosante de alegría
Chinese
欣喜若狂
Japanese
喜びにあふれる
Korean
기쁨에 넘친

Etymology

This phrase comes from the literal idea of something so full that it bursts. In English, it became a fixed way to describe strong, overflowing happiness.

Common phrases

bursting with joybursting with happinessbursting with pride

Synonyms

Related words

Frequently asked questions

Is bursting with joy formal or informal?
It is neutral and can be used in speaking or writing.
Is bursting with joy the same as happy?
It is stronger than happy. It shows very intense joy.
Can I use bursting with joy in IELTS Writing?
Yes, if the context is emotional and natural.