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"Satisfying" vs. "satisfactory": finding the right fit

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 01/11/2024, 04:38
English.me team member
Satisfying and satisfactory. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both words relate to fulfilling or meeting an expectation, desire, or requirement.

What is different?

The word "satisfying" often describes an experience or feeling that gives pleasure or a sense of fulfillment, while "satisfactory" describes something that meets a criteria or standard, often in a more neutral or technical sense.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for satisfying) and satisfactory

Examples of usage

Satisfying
  • The meal was incredibly satisfying and left us feeling content.
  • Completing the project ahead of schedule was a satisfying achievement.
  • It was satisfying to hear that everyone enjoyed the event.
Satisfactory
  • The student's performance was satisfactory, meeting all the course requirements.
  • The product was of satisfactory quality, though not exceptional.
  • We found the resolution of the issue to be satisfactory.

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