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erfreulich
pleasing
Such that it causes joy or satisfaction; positive and pleasant.
example
Der Arzt hatte eine erfreuliche Nachricht für die Patientin.
The doctor had pleasing news for the patient.
erfreulich
pleasing
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'erfreulich' (pleasing) belongs to the word family of 'die Freude' (joy) and 'sich freuen' (to be happy). The prefix 'er-' and the ending '-lich' form a word from it that means 'bringing joy'.
EXAMPLE
Es ist immer erfreulich, von alten Freunden zu hören.
It is always pleasing to hear from old friends.
Register and style
'Erfreulich' (pleasing) belongs more to written language or somewhat more formal usage. It is used less often in everyday, casual conversations.
EXAMPLE
Der Geschäftsbericht zeigte eine erfreuliche Umsatzsteigerung.
The annual report showed a pleasing increase in revenue.
Typical collocations
As an adjective before a noun, 'erfreulich' (pleasing) is often combined with abstract things. Common collocations are: 'eine erfreuliche Nachricht' (pleasing news), 'ein erfreuliches Ergebnis' (a pleasing result), or 'eine erfreuliche Entwicklung' (a pleasing development).
EXAMPLE
Das Wahlergebnis war für die kleine Partei sehr erfreulich.
The election result was very pleasing for the small party.
Use as an adverb
As an adverb, 'erfreulich' (encouragingly) usually describes verbs that express a change or development. Typical verbs are 'sich entwickeln' (to develop), 'steigen' (to rise), or 'zunehmen' (to increase).
EXAMPLE
Die Zahl der Anmeldungen für den Kurs ist erfreulich hoch.
The number of registrations for the course is encouragingly high.
Compare with
erfreulich vs schön
beautiful / nice
'schön' and 'erfreulich' can both express that something is positive and creates good feelings. 'schön' is very general and fits many everyday situations, for example for a day, a meeting, or a piece of news. 'erfreulich' sounds a bit more factual and is often used for results, news, or developments. When speaking personally and casually, 'schön' is usually more natural. When you want to emphasize that a development is positive, 'erfreulich' fits well.
erfreulich
Die Ergebnisse der Prüfung sind erfreulich, denn fast alle haben bestanden.
The exam results are pleasing, because almost everyone passed.
schön
Es war schön, nach langer Zeit wieder mit Anna zu sprechen.
It was nice to speak with Anna again after such a long time.
In real life
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