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"Lighthearted" vs. "jolly": a cheerful comparison

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 17/05/2025, 07:16
English.me team member
Lighthearted and jolly. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "lighthearted" and "jolly" describe positive moods and are used to refer to cheerful attitudes or atmospheres. They both convey a sense of happiness and can be applied to people or situations.

What is different?

"Lighthearted" emphasizes being carefree, relaxed, and not weighed down by worries, while "jolly" focuses more on being lively, exuberant, and full of merry energy. "Jolly" is often associated with visible outward expressions of joy, whereas "lighthearted" can be more subtle or calm.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for lighthearted) and jolly

Examples of usage

Lighthearted
  • She told a lighthearted joke that made everyone smile.
  • The movie had a lighthearted tone, making it enjoyable for all ages.
  • Despite the setbacks, he remained lighthearted and optimistic.
Jolly
  • The jolly man laughed heartily at the party.
  • Santa Claus is often portrayed as a jolly figure.
  • The room was filled with jolly singing and dancing.

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