Margaret Serious

A fresh word for joy? I’d be delighted!

I was once cautioned against using “love” in business situations, even when it was “I’d love to help” or “I’d love to talk to you about that job.”

When I was asked to think of something fresher, but also enthusiastic, I realized that “delight” and “delighted” weren’t getting out much — one of the original criteria for Words Worth Defending.

Well, they’re getting out even less these days, I observe. Not much is delightful anymore about staying home so much and seeing closed storefronts, not open doors. So when something re-opens or you can get to see someone at last, don’t lean too much on “love.” You don’t want to give your favorite shop a hug, no matter how much you may like the person behind the counter.

A sincere “Welcome back” will be lovely to hear, and I look forward to saying “I’m delighted to be back.”

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Filed under:
Words Worth Defending