We’ve all received good news from someone—a friend announcing a promotion, a colleague sharing a project win, or even a family member talking about personal milestones. And while saying “happy to hear that” is kind and polite, using it over and over again can get repetitive.
That’s why having a range of alternative expressions to show you’re listening and genuinely expressing joy can make your communication feel more sincere and engaging.
Whether you’re replying in a professional setting, texting a friend, or writing a thoughtful email, this guide will show you 20 powerful alternatives to say “happy to hear that,” with real-world examples and use cases.
Thrilled for You
This phrase packs a punch of enthusiastic response and works beautifully in both personal and semi-formal messages.
Example Email:
Subject: Huge Congrats, James!
Hey James,
I just heard you’ve been selected to lead the new product team—I’m thrilled for you! You’ve worked so hard for this, and it’s truly well-deserved.
Let’s celebrate soon!
Best,
Maya
Use this when the emotional significance of the news is high and you want to show excitement that matches the moment.
Overjoyed for You
A bit more expressive than “thrilled,” this phrase works best when something deeply emotionally touching happens—like a marriage, birth, or health recovery.
Example Text:
“I just saw the pictures of baby Noah—I’m absolutely overjoyed for you! He’s perfect!”
This conveys a heartfelt response and genuine warmth in tone.
That’s Fantastic
Simple, energetic, and friendly—this phrase fits well in casual conversations or quick replies.
Example Slack Message:
“You finished the design a week early? That’s fantastic, Liz. Can’t wait to see the final results!”
This also works great in workplace etiquette, especially when recognizing team success.
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Couldn’t Be Happier for You
When you’re not just happy—but at your emotional peak for someone else—this phrase says it all.
Example Email:
Subject: Big News = Big Smile
Dear Nora,
Just read your update on LinkedIn about your new role at Deloitte—I couldn’t be happier for you. You’re going to thrive there!
Wishing you continued success,
Matt
Perfect for formal and informal contexts alike, especially in professional communication.
Delighted to Know
This phrase works well when you want to sound professional but still express warmth.
Example Business Email:
Hi Rachel,
I’m delighted to know that the client approved the proposal. Great work leading the team on this!
Let’s touch base soon.
Best regards,
Daniel
It keeps things polished without losing sincerity.
So Pleased to Hear
This sounds a bit softer than “delighted” and adds a comforting tone—great for both professional and sincere communication.
Example Message:
“I’m so pleased to hear that your mother’s surgery went well. Sending love and good energy.”
An excellent option when you’re trying to balance emotional care with a conversational tone.
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So Happy for You
A universal favorite. It’s straightforward, warm, and fits almost any situation.
Example Instagram Comment:
“You bought your first home?! I’m so happy for you, Carla!”
This one nails the personal happiness angle with style.
Heartwarming News
Not a direct replacement, but a powerful descriptor for the kind of update that lifts the spirit.
Example LinkedIn Comment:
“That story about your team volunteering with the local school is truly heartwarming news. Kudos to all of you.”
Best used when the update is uplifting news that touches others emotionally.
That’s Great News
A go-to phrase for replying quickly to something positive without sounding too formal or too casual.
Example Chat Message:
“That’s great news about your visa getting approved. When’s the big move?”
This balances professionalism and friendly engagement perfectly.
What Wonderful News
A slightly more elegant version of “that’s great news,” this phrase feels a touch more refined.
Example Email:
Hi Olivia,
What wonderful news about your acceptance into Yale! Your hard work is clearly paying off.
Cheers,
Anya
Use it when the situation calls for a bit of poetic flair or formality.
Glad to Know
If you’re acknowledging a small win or light update, “glad to know” works great.
Example Message:
“I’m glad to know the project timeline is still on track.”
Simple and effective—ideal for day-to-day professional communication.
For your interest: 21 Other Ways to Say “Coming Soon”
That’s Wonderful
Sometimes, you just want to acknowledge something beautifully. This phrase offers a balance of enthusiastic response and charm.
Example Email:
Subject: You Did It!
Hi Brandon,
Just saw your article published in Forbes—that’s wonderful! Your voice is reaching more people, and it’s inspiring.
Talk soon,
Ellie
Best used in messages where your joy matches theirs.
Pleased to Hear
This has a professional tone and works especially well in B2B or formal messages.
Example Business Email:
Dear Jonathan,
I’m pleased to hear that your Q2 goals were exceeded. Looking forward to our meeting next week.
Best,
Sharon
This one sticks to workplace etiquette but still feels personal.
Good to Hear
Ideal when you want to keep things short and friendly without overthinking the tone.
Example Text:
“Oh, good to hear! I was wondering how your dog was doing after the surgery.”
Friendly, unpretentious, and relatable.
Music to My Ears
This one leans more playful, but it’s a fun way to say you’re excited about an update.
Example Chat:
“The boss approved the extra vacation days? That’s music to my ears!”
Best used in casual conversations or with coworkers you have rapport with.
Wonderful to Hear
This elegant phrase fits well when you want to sound thoughtful and polished.
Example Email:
Dear Priya,
It’s wonderful to hear that your book launch exceeded expectations. Wishing you continued success!
Warm regards,
Dr. Haleem
Especially fitting in formal settings.
That’s Uplifting
This works when the update brings positive energy, hope, or emotional expression.
Example LinkedIn Comment:
“Hearing how your team supported each other during layoffs is truly uplifting.”
A great way to acknowledge inspiring moments.
That’s Incredible
Best used when something impresses you beyond the norm.
Example Message:
“You ran a marathon just three months after your injury? That’s incredible, Jake!”
This shows you’re not just happy, but genuinely amazed.
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Love to Hear That
Popular in text or social media—it feels natural and modern.
Example DM:
“Just saw your startup hit 10K followers—love to hear that. Keep going strong!”
Great for casual conversations and fast-paced chats.
That Made My Day
When someone’s news lights up your mood, this one adds a personal, heartfelt touch.
Example Email:
Hi Grace,
Your note about your student getting a full scholarship absolutely made my day. Thank you for sharing that joy.
All the best,
Nina
This phrase works when the update’s positive reaction impacts you personally.
Alternative Ways to Say “Happy to Hear That”
| Expression | Best Use Case | Tone |
|---|
| Thrilled for you | Personal success, big milestones | Excited, sincere |
| Overjoyed for you | Emotional family news | Deeply emotional |
| That’s fantastic | Casual wins, project success | Energetic |
| Couldn’t be happier for you | Career updates, major life events | Heartfelt |
| Delighted to know | Client updates, achievements | Professional, warm |
| So pleased to hear | Personal updates, semi-formal messages | Warm, kind |
| So happy for you | Universal positive response | Friendly, informal |
| Heartwarming news | Volunteer work, social impact stories | Touching, emotional |
| That’s great news | Neutral and flexible usage | Cheerful |
| What wonderful news | High praise or success moments | Elegant |
| Glad to know | Status updates | Practical |
| That’s wonderful | Personal or work wins | Friendly, refined |
| Pleased to hear | Business communications | Formal |
| Good to hear | Light updates | Friendly |
| Music to my ears | Informal wins | Playful |
| Wonderful to hear | Formal emails | Polished |
| That’s uplifting | Motivational stories | Encouraging |
| That’s incredible | Surprising news | Admiring |
| Love to hear that | Social media, chats | Trendy, casual |
| That made my day | Heartfelt stories | Personal |
FAQs
What’s a quick way to sound sincere without being too formal?
Use “Glad to know” or “So happy for you” for a warm, natural tone that fits most situations.
Can these expressions be used in business emails?
Yes, options like “Pleased to hear” and “Delighted to know” are great for professional communication.
Which phrase works best in a group chat?
“That’s fantastic” or “Love to hear that” work well in casual conversations with friends or coworkers.
Are these phrases suitable for social media comments?
Absolutely. “What wonderful news” or “That made my day” are great ways to show positive reaction online.
Is it okay to use emojis with these phrases?
In informal settings, yes—emojis can boost your emotional expression and make your message feel more friendly.
Conclusion
20 Other Ways to Say “Happy to Hear That” gives you more than phrases—it offers the right emotion for the right moment. When someone shares good news, your reply should feel personal and thoughtful.
With these alternatives, you can respond with enthusiastic response or a calm warm tone, depending on the situation. Whether you’re messaging a friend or emailing a colleague, there’s a phrase here that fits perfectly. Now, you’re ready to make every reply count and leave a lasting, positive reaction.
Zoey Alba is an experienced blogger and language enthusiast with a passion for helping readers master the art of grammar. With years of expertise in writing, editing, and content creation, Zoey shares practical tips and insightful advice to make grammar accessible for all. When she’s not writing, Zoey enjoys reading, learning new languages, and inspiring others to write with confidence.