Difference Between Glad and Happy

Key Difference – Glad vs Happy
 

Happy and glad are two adjectives that refer to feelings of pleasure, delight, joy and contentment. Although glad and happy can be used interchangeably in some contexts, there is a difference between glad and happy in terms of their usage. The term glad is often used with a direct or immediate cause for being glad whereas the term happy can also be used to refer to a general mental state. This is the main difference between glad and happy.

What is Glad?

Glad is an adjective that refers to happy. It can be described as joy, pleasure or delight. However, glad is not usually used to indicate the general state of the mind; it is almost always used with a direct or immediate cause. For example, we don’t generally say “I’m feeling glad today.” Instead, we use the adjective happy to describe our general mental state. (e.g., “I’m feeling happy today”) In addition, glad can also refer to a willingness to do something.

You can observe these more clearly characteristics in the following examples.

I’m glad to meet you.

He was glad that Andersons were gone.

I’m very glad to hear that.

I’m glad you could come.

The letter brought glad news from home.

He is glad to answer any questions we have.

What is Happy?

Happy can be described as an adjective that indicates pleasure, enjoyment, and contentment. Unlike glad, happy can be used to describe a general mental state. For example,

You look happy.

I’m very happy today.

Happy is more commonly used and less formal than glad. Happy can be used to refer to a wide range of feelings and situations.

She had a happy childhood.

The movie has a happy ending.

I’m very happy to see you doing so well.

He was not happy with their performance.

I’ll be happy to help you.

He’ll do anything to make her happy.

What is the difference between Glad and Happy?

Usage:

Glad is generally used with a direct or immediate cause.

Happy can be also used without a cause.

Expression of Mental State:

Glad is not usually used to describe a general mental state.

Happy can be used to describe a general mental state.

Formality:

Glad is more formal than happy.

Happy is less formal than glad.

Image Courtesy: Pixbay