elate
/ɪˈleɪt/ IELTSAcademic
verb
to make someone very happy or excited. It is often used in formal writing.
- The good news elated her.
- His praise elated the whole team.
- The result elated the fans.
Adinary Nuance
Elate is stronger and more formal than happy or glad. It suggests a high, lifted feeling, often after success or good news. Writers use it when plain words like delighted or pleased feel too weak.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- làm vui mừng
- Spanish
- alegrar
- Chinese
- 使兴高采烈
- Japanese
- 大喜びさせる
- Korean
- 몹시 기쁘게 하다
Etymology
From Latin elatus, past participle of efferre, meaning “to lift out” or “raise up.” It entered English in the 17th century.
Common phrases
elate someonefeel elatedelated by good news
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is elate formal or informal?
- Elate is fairly formal and often appears in writing, not casual speech.
- What is the difference between elate and delight?
- Elate suggests stronger excitement or happiness. Delight is lighter and more common.
- Can I say 'I am elated'?
- Yes. It means you feel extremely happy or excited.
- Is elated used in business writing?
- Yes, but it can sound emotional. It works best for big success or positive news.