Spanish Conversation · Level 49
75 words
Spanish word
alegría
Pronunciation
IPA/aleˈɣɾia/
Meaning
- feminine nounjoy
Example
Siento mucha alegría.
I feel great joy.
More examples
Los niños daban saltos de alegría.
The children were jumping for joy.
Core concept
A short, bright burst of pleasure.
Common phrases
dar saltos de alegría
jump for joy
reírse de alegría
laugh with joy
manifestar alegría
show joy
Similar words
felicidad: Deep, ongoing happiness rooted in life circumstances.
satisfacción: Quiet satisfaction that comes when expectations are fulfilled.
entusiasmo: Passionate, spirited joy that drives action and engagement.
placer: Immediate sensory pleasure or physical enjoyment.
Definition in Spanish
Emoción positiva y breve que siente una persona al experimentar placer o una buena noticia.
Word origin
The noun comes from the adjective alegre plus the nominal suffix -ía and ultimately traces back to Latin alacer and alacritas meaning lively.
Usage tips
- Spanish speakers use alegría for brief, often sudden pleasure or good-news reactions and commonly say exclamations like '¡Qué alegría!' while felicidad denotes more lasting happiness.