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"Joyful" vs. "merry": a happy duo with distinct flavors

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 28/10/2024, 10:51
English.me team member
Joyful and merry. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both words describe a state of happiness or cheerfulness and are often used in contexts related to celebration or positive emotions.

What is different?

The word "joyful" implies a more profound and often spiritual or emotional happiness, while "merry" is more commonly associated with a light-hearted, cheerful, and festive happiness.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for joyful) and merry

Examples of usage

Joyful
  • She felt joyful as she watched her children play.
  • The joyful reunion brought tears to their eyes.
  • He was joyful upon hearing the good news.
Merry
  • The group had a merry time at the festival.
  • His merry laughter filled the room.
  • She was in a merry mood during the picnic.

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