"Satisfying" vs. "satisfactory": finding the right fit
Reviewed and edited by
Lloyd Cooper 01/11/2024, 04:38
English.me team member

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?

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.
- 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.