It’s my pleasure Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

(it’s mah-PLIH-zur) 🔊

Part of Speech

Definition

A polite expression used to declined an offer or to show appreciation, implying that the speaker does not want to impose or burden the person making the offer.

Examples

• You’re welcome to join us for dinner, but it’s my pleasure to stay at home tonight.
• We’d love to have you over, but it’s my pleasure to decline the invitation.

Synonyms

• You’re welcome
• Thank you
• Sorry, but

Antonyms

• I’d love to
• It would be my pleasure
• Thank you, I accept

Etymology

Thought to have originated in the 16th century from the Old French phrase “il est mon plaisir,” which translates to “it is my pleasure” or “I am pleased.”

Additional Information

it’s my pleasure is often used in formal and informal settings to show politeness, respect, and gratitude. It’s a versatile expression that can be used in various situations, from rejecting an offer to expressing appreciation for a favor. While it’s commonly used in English-speaking countries, it’s not a direct translation for many languages, and regional variations may apply.

When used in formal writing, it’s my pleasure is often replaced with a more formal phrase, such as “it would be my pleasure” or “I would be delighted.”

Usage Notes

it’s my pleasure is often used in response to an offer, request, or invitation. In some cases, it can also be used to express gratitude or appreciation for something.

Be cautious using it’s my pleasure in direct translation, as it may not convey the intended meaning in other languages.

Cultural References

This phrase has been featured in various TV shows, movies, and books, often used to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dialogue. One notable example is the 2020 film “The Gentlemen,” where it’s used as a polite way for one character to decline an invitation.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• You’re welcome, it’s the least I could do
• I’m happy to help, but it’s your pleasure
• Thank you, but it’s my pleasure

Related Words or Phrases

• Polite
• Sincere
• Appreciative

Collocations

• it’s my pleasure to meet you
• it’s my pleasure to help
• it’s my pleasure to stay

Frequency of Use

it’s my pleasure is a relatively uncommon phrase in modern language, but it’s still used in formal and informal settings to add a touch of elegance and politeness.

Common Misspellings

• Its my pleasure
• Its my plesher