We are pleased to inform you that, in formal writing, this phrase often sounds stiff and overused, even though it is still common, over time, I learned to try 15 other ways to say the same thing so it can feel personal yet stay formal.
These changes help make the message sound friendly while keeping a respectful tone, especially when I trained people in business and noticed how small changes mattered. By using warm, natural phrases, I have seen that they helped create better connections, whether through an email, a letter, or making an announcement.
Choosing softer words often makes news more meaningful, and it can change your response even when habits still exist, because this approach shaped how I share updates and how others respond.
What Does “We Are Pleased to Inform You” Mean?
The phrase “we are pleased to inform you” is commonly used to deliver positive or important news in a formal and respectful way. It signals good intent, courtesy, and professionalism, especially in business, academic, or official communication.
When to Use “We Are Pleased to Inform You”
You should use this phrase when sharing official updates, approvals, announcements, or positive decisions, especially in emails, letters, or notices where a polite and formal tone is expected.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “We Are Pleased to Inform You”?
Yes, it is both professional and polite. However, it can feel overused or emotionally distant, which is why many writers choose softer or warmer alternatives depending on the audience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very polite and professional
- Widely accepted in formal writing
- Clear and respectful
Cons:
- Can sound stiff or impersonal
- Often overused
- Less engaging in friendly communication
Synonyms for “we are pleased to inform you”
- We’re Happy to Let You Know
- We’re Delighted to Share
- We’re Glad to Inform You
- We’re Pleased to Share
- We’re Excited to Announce
- We’re Happy to Announce
- We’re Writing to Let You Know
- We’d Like to Inform You
- We’re Glad to Share
- We’re Thankful to Inform You
- We’re Proud to Share
- We’re Happy to Update You
- We’re Writing with Good News
- We’re Sharing This Update
- We’re Happy to Confirm
We’re Happy to Let You Know
Meaning & Definition: A friendly way to share positive news.
Explanation: Sounds warm and conversational while staying polite.
Example: “We’re happy to let you know your application was approved.”
Best Use: Friendly emails, internal updates.
Worst Use: Strict legal notices.
Tone: Warm, positive
We’re Delighted to Share
Meaning & Definition: Expresses genuine happiness about the news.
Explanation: Adds emotional warmth to announcements.
Example: “We’re delighted to share the results with you.”
Best Use: Celebratory messages.
Worst Use: Neutral or negative updates.
Tone: Cheerful, enthusiastic
We’re Glad to Inform You
Meaning & Definition: A softer version of the original phrase.
Explanation: Keeps professionalism while sounding less stiff.
Example: “We’re glad to inform you of your promotion.”
Best Use: Business emails with a human touch.
Worst Use: Very formal legal writing.
Tone: Polite, friendly
We’re Pleased to Share
Meaning & Definition: Focuses on sharing rather than announcing.
Explanation: Feels more collaborative and open.
Example: “We’re pleased to share an update with you.”
Best Use: Team or client communication.
Worst Use: Urgent notices.
Tone: Professional, warm
We’re Excited to Announce
Meaning & Definition: Highlights enthusiasm about the news.
Explanation: Adds energy and positivity.
Example: “We’re excited to announce our new program.”
Best Use: Marketing or internal announcements.
Worst Use: Serious or sensitive topics.
Tone: Energetic
We’re Happy to Announce
Meaning & Definition: Friendly and positive announcement phrase.
Explanation: Balances warmth and clarity.
Example: “We’re happy to announce the launch date.”
Best Use: Public updates.
Worst Use: Formal legal documents.
Tone: Positive
We’re Writing to Let You Know
Meaning & Definition: Clear and direct communication.
Explanation: Sounds natural and personal.
Example: “We’re writing to let you know about the changes.”
Best Use: Informational emails.
Worst Use: Highly formal contexts.
Tone: Neutral, approachable
We’d Like to Inform You
Meaning & Definition: Polite and respectful phrasing.
Explanation: Slightly formal but softer than the original.
Example: “We’d like to inform you of the decision.”
Best Use: Business correspondence.
Worst Use: Casual chats.
Tone: Professional
We’re Glad to Share
Meaning & Definition: Emphasizes openness and positivity.
Explanation: Feels inclusive and friendly.
Example: “We’re glad to share this update.”
Best Use: Team messages.
Worst Use: Legal notices.
Tone: Warm
We’re Thankful to Inform You
Meaning & Definition: Shows appreciation while sharing news.
Explanation: Adds gratitude to communication.
Example: “We’re thankful to inform you of your success.”
Best Use: Appreciation-based messages.
Worst Use: Neutral announcements.
Tone: Grateful
We’re Proud to Share
Meaning & Definition: Highlights pride in the news.
Explanation: Works well for achievements.
Example: “We’re proud to share your accomplishment.”
Best Use: Recognition messages.
Worst Use: Routine updates.
Tone: Positive, proud
We’re Happy to Update You
Meaning & Definition: Casual but clear update phrase.
Explanation: Sounds modern and friendly.
Example: “We’re happy to update you on the progress.”
Best Use: Ongoing projects.
Worst Use: Formal letters.
Tone: Friendly
We’re Writing with Good News
Meaning & Definition: Directly signals positivity.
Explanation: Immediately sets the tone.
Example: “We’re writing with good news about your request.”
Best Use: Personal or client emails.
Worst Use: Neutral updates.
Tone: Positive
We’re Sharing This Update
Meaning & Definition: Neutral and clear phrasing.
Explanation: Keeps focus on information.
Example: “We’re sharing this update for your awareness.”
Best Use: Informational messages.
Worst Use: Emotional announcements.
Tone: Neutral
We’re Happy to Confirm
Meaning & Definition: Confirms something positively.
Explanation: Useful for approvals and confirmations.
Example: “We’re happy to confirm your registration.”
Best Use: Confirmations.
Worst Use: First-time announcements.
Tone: Reassuring
Comparison Table of Top Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best For |
| We’re Happy to Let You Know | Warm | Friendly emails |
| We’re Delighted to Share | Enthusiastic | Celebrations |
| We’re Glad to Inform You | Polite | Business updates |
| We’re Excited to Announce | Energetic | Announcements |
| We’re Happy to Confirm | Reassuring | Confirmations |
Final Thoughts
Choosing alternatives to “we are pleased to inform you” is more than a writing choice—it’s a way to show care, clarity, and respect. The right wording can soften a formal message, making it feel more human and approachable while still keeping a professional tone. Small changes in phrasing often create a stronger emotional connection.
When you select words thoughtfully, your message becomes clearer, warmer, and more meaningful. Whether you’re writing a business email, an announcement, or a formal letter, using the right expression helps your reader feel valued and informed, not just notified.
FAQs
Why is “we are pleased to inform you” considered formal?
The phrase “we are pleased to inform you” follows traditional business writing rules. It uses polite structure and neutral emotion, which makes it sound official and respectful. However, this formality can feel distant, which is why many writers now prefer warmer alternatives in modern communication.
Can I use alternatives in professional emails?
Yes, many alternatives are still professional and polite. Phrases like “we’re happy to let you know” or “we’re glad to share” keep respect intact while sounding more natural and friendly, especially in modern workplace communication.
When should I avoid casual alternatives?
You should avoid casual alternatives in legal documents, contracts, or official notices. In these cases, traditional phrasing like “we are pleased to inform you” ensures clarity, seriousness, and formal acceptance without misunderstanding.
Do softer phrases reduce professionalism?
No, softer phrases do not reduce professionalism when used correctly. They often improve engagement and make messages feel thoughtful and considerate, especially in emails, internal updates, or customer communication.
Is the phrase outdated?
The phrase isn’t outdated, but it is overused. Readers still understand it, yet many now prefer wording that feels fresh, warm, and conversational, especially in digital communication.
What tone does the phrase usually convey?
It usually conveys a polite, neutral, and formal tone. While respectful, it may lack emotional warmth, which is why alternatives are often chosen to sound more personal and engaging.
Can this phrase be used for negative news?
It’s best used for positive or neutral news. Using it for negative updates can feel confusing or insensitive. Clear and empathetic language works better when delivering difficult information.
How do I choose the best alternative?
Choose based on audience, purpose, and context. Formal settings need polite structure, while friendly or internal communication benefits from warm, natural phrasing that builds connection.
Is it okay to mix formal and friendly language?
Yes, balanced writing often works best. Mixing professional clarity with friendly wording helps your message sound confident without feeling cold or impersonal.
Does wording really affect how news is received?
Absolutely. The right words can make news feel encouraging, respectful, and meaningful. Thoughtful phrasing shapes emotional response and strengthens communication overall.
