Less than pleased Meaning in English
expression
ˈɫɛs/ /ˈðæn/, /ðən/ /ˈpɫizd
LESS-than-PLEEZD
lˈɛs/ /ðˈɐn/ /plˈiːzd
less-THUN-PLEEZD
Definition
Used to say someone is unhappy, annoyed, or dissatisfied, often in a mild or understated way.
Usage & Nuances
This is a mildly sarcastic or indirect phrase—it's softer than saying someone is angry or very unhappy. Common in formal or polite contexts, especially in British English. Often used to hint at disappointment or irritation without being too direct.
Spanish: no muy contento - poco satisfechoPortuguese (BR): nada satisfeito - pouco contentePortuguese (PT): nada satisfeito - pouco contenteChinese (Simplified): 不太高兴 - 不怎么满意Chinese (Traditional): 不太高興 - 不怎麼滿意Hindi: ज़्यादा खुश नहीं - नाखुशArabic: غير راضٍ - غير سعيدBengali: খুশি নন - তেমন সন্তুষ্ট ননRussian: не в восторге - не слишком доволенJapanese: あまり満足していない - あまり喜んでいないVietnamese: không hài lòng - không vuiKorean: 그다지 만족하지 않은 - 그다지 기뻐하지 않은Turkish: memnun değil - pek hoşnut değilUrdu: زیادہ خوش نہیں تھے - ناخوشIndonesian: kurang senang - kurang puas
Example Sentences
My teacher looked less than pleased with my homework.
basic
He was less than pleased about the delay.
basic
The manager was less than pleased with our project results.
basic
She walked in and was less than pleased to see the mess.
natural
Trust me, your parents will be less than pleased if you fail again.
natural
When he heard about the late fees, he was definitely less than pleased.
natural