English is as beautiful as it is tricky. Especially for non-native speakers, the language is a maze waiting to be explored, riddled with phrases, dialects, idioms and so much more. One of those many riddles is the phrase, ‘I’m Pleased to Inform you.’ Let’s know the meaning of I Am Pleased To Inform You.
In simple words, ‘I’m Pleased to Inform you,’ is a way of expressing happiness when sharing the good news with someone else. In a way, it fuels the listener and/or the receiver of the news with more positivity. Many also believe that the phrase carries a tone of politeness with it.
However, there is more to it. You’ve probably seen the phrase being spoken in various instances throughout your life. It may show up at the beginning of an email or a letter, perhaps, in a face-to-face conversation. Given the formal nature of the phrase, it is not unlikely for one to encounter it in places like hospitals, workplaces, law firms, and many others. And while the receiver appreciates such a phrase, the speaker must ensure that their usage of the phrase is correct.
When and How to Use
This section will hopefully try answering the question of meaning and usage in more detail. The first part of this section deals exclusively with usage and settings and is followed by a shorter subsection that discusses appropriate replies for the phrase.
The following bullet points highlight how the phrase can be utilized:
- When Giving Good News to Others
As stated already, the phrase, ‘I’m pleased to inform you,’ often makes an appearance in delightful situations. Usually, when the news you’re about to give is sure to make the other party feel happy.
For Example, an acceptance letter from a university.
Since being admitted into universities is a happy occasion and the news of acceptance when received by the candidate, is sure to be received with immense joy, the phrase often makes appearances here.
“We’re pleased to inform you that you’ve been provisionally accepted to the University of…”
Doesn’t that sound natural and pleasant? The speaker might be a stranger to you but the use of this phrase makes them sound glad and polite, which also facilitates the university in building up a good and approachable reputation.
Another example can be of a lawyer giving considerable good news to one of their clients. You must’ve noticed in TV Shows or even in real life, that oftentimes, in workplaces and formal interactions, the news is delivered using similar phrases.
“I’m pleased to inform you that the other party has decided to withdraw their case.”
Here, the usage of the phrase empathizes with the client, helping the lawyer bridge gaps and strengthen ties.
- When Sharing something Pleasant which happened to you
The phrase, however, is not limited to only discussing someone else’s affairs. You can also use it to share the positive happenings in your own life!
You must’ve come across situations in your life where you experienced something of great significance and had to share the news with others. In some cases, that person might not be very well acquainted with you. The phrase becomes of great help in such situations.
For example, an online blogger, who had been working on a research paper for a long time, finally finishes their research and wishes to share the news with their readers. They might prefer to use the phrase too.
“Dear Readers, I’m pleased to inform you that my research has finally come to an end.”
When spoken as such, the sentence not only generates a feeling of familiarity but also bridges the gap between the writer and their audience, despite the fact that the space wholly exists virtually. Moreover, sharing of their successes very much helps tie the receivers to the blogger.
You can similarly use the phrase. The phrase can also be used in invitations or when sharing big, happening events.
For example a wedding. Not everyone that you wish to inform about your or your loved one’s wedding ceremonies might be close to you. However, social orders require for such news to be shared. The phrase can aptly be used in such situations.
“It’s been long since we last caught up. I hope you’re doing well.
I’m pleased to inform you that my son has found someone he would like to settle down with and we’re planning to hold their wedding ceremonies this coming weekend.
You’re cordially invited. We would love for you to grace them with your blessings.”
Now, that example might look a bit wordy. But, focus on how the phrase fits into the entire frame of the invitation. It doesn’t sound very familiar but at the same time, it does sound inviting and it gives the reader a feeling of being welcomed into your personal and intimate affairs.
Can I use the phrase those who’re close to me?
Well, that depends upon you.
Although, the phrase is a bit formal and carries with itself an overly polite and sophisticated air which is something one might not share with a close group of friends and family- people who share a lot more flexible relationships with you.
However, the phrase isn’t the only one to exist and has various alternatives, which I discuss at the end of the article. So, if you’re curious, keep scrolling.
How Do I Reply?
Well, now that the usage is covered, let’s try turning the table a little. What happens when you’re on the receiving end of the phrase?
The most obvious response would be to thank them. But that isn’t the universal response nor is it fitting in each situation. So let’s have a look at the possibilities:
- When To Say Thank You
The most possible situation where you might respond with a ‘thanks,’ or a ‘thank you very much,’ is when the good news is about you.
For example, a doctor informing you about the birth of your daughter.
“I’m pleased to inform you that you’re now a parent to a daughter.”
“Thank you very much.”
Remember the example of a lawyer giving news of a positive advancement in their case to their client? That too can be followed by an expression of gratitude.
“I’m pleased to inform you that the other party has decided to withdraw their case.”
“It’s all thanks to you. Thank you.”
In all these situations, the other party is simply giving you news about something which is positively impacting you on a personal level. And hence, the gratitude you showcase is for their help as well as for the news they convey to you.
- When to Not say Thanks
It is best to reply with a ‘That is lovely to hear,’ or ‘I’m so happy for you,’ when someone shares news about themselves.
Let’s consider the example of the blogger above. The news the blogger shares is personal and is only being shared because the blogger considers their reader close enough to receive updates on what goes on in their life, which includes the news of them finishing their research work.
“Dear Readers, I’m pleased to inform you that my research has finally come to an end.”
“I’m so happy for you! All the best for your future endeavors.”
Saying, thank you, in such a situation would sound awkward since you as the reader/ receiver of the news have nothing to be grateful for. The news the person delivers is about their accomplishment and the best way to respond would be to show them support.
You can, however, show gratitude towards the fact that they considered you close enough to share these details with you.
Other Alternatives
‘I’m pleased to inform you,’ as a phrase had various alternatives. In most cases, its alternatives can replace that phrase in a sentence without changing the meaning of the sentence. Hence, if you’re ever faced with any of these alternatives in any situation, you can very much refer to the replies discussed above.
- I am Happy to Share
‘I am happy to share,’ or ‘I am glad to report,’ are direct alternatives of ‘I’m pleased to inform.’ Meaning, that all three of these phrases share the same meaning, and somewhat same connotations and can be used in situations discussed above.
- I am proud to Share
The phrase ‘I’m proud to share,’ is somewhat different from ‘I’m pleased to inform.’
This phrase carries with itself a sense of assertion and is hence often used in leadership roles. The phrase is often also used by leaders, employers, etc. to announce new business ventures or advancements to their employees. The phrase shares a similar meaning with ‘I’m pleased to inform you,’ but has widely different connotations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use the phrase ‘I’m Pleased to Inform you,’ with my friends?
A1. The phrase sounds extremely formal and is usually used with acquaintances (people you know but aren’t very close with). That being said, there are no rules set in stone so if you feel comfortable using the phrase with your friends just go right ahead!
Q2. Can this phrase only be used when giving news to someone else?
A2. Mostly the phrase is used to give news as well as share good news. There are various instances where the phrase can be used. For example, making an informal announcement i.e the birth of a child or a marriage.
Q3. Should I double-check my usage of the phrase?
A3. Yes, given the very particular nature of the phrase, it is best to ensure that the setting in which you use it is a positive one- not just for you but for the other party as well.