Definition

In a way that is enjoyable or agreeable.

Example

She smiled pleasantly when she saw her friends.

Conversation

I had a pleasantly surprising day at work today.

Oh really? What happened?

We got a pleasantly unexpected bonus from our manager.

That's awesome! It must feel great to be appreciated like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pleasantly → It is formed from "pleasant" (from Old French *plaisant*, meaning pleasing or agreeable) and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "pleasantly" means in a pleasing or agreeable manner.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'pleasing' ('pleasant') and how it is done 'in a manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that 'pleasantly' describes doing something in a pleasing way.

Visually Confused Words