satisfaction
sat-is-FAK-shuhn
/ˌsætɪsˈfækʃən/
Fulfillment of one's wishes, expectations, or needs, or the pleasure derived from this.
In retail, it is the ultimate goal of the customer service department.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'satisfactio,' literally meaning 'to make enough.' When you are satisfied, the store has done 'enough' to fix your problem.
Word relationships
- contentment: Contentment is a quiet state of happiness; satisfaction is the feeling of a specific need being met.
- dissatisfaction: The state of being unhappy with a result.
Commonly confused with
- gratification: Gratification is often immediate and emotional; satisfaction is often the result of a process or resolution.
Word family
- satisfy (verb): to meet expectations
- satisfactory (adjective): good enough
Collocations
- customer satisfaction
- guaranteed satisfaction
- satisfaction survey
Idioms & expressions
- to one's heart's satisfaction
Example sentences
- "Customer satisfaction is our top priority." Customer service slogan.
- "I can't get no satisfaction." Famous quote. (The Rolling Stones (Song Lyrics))
Memory hook
SATISFACTION: When the store does enough to make you feel SATISfied. Doing enough.
When not to use
Do not use if you are only 'okay' with a result; satisfaction implies a complete fulfillment.
Fun facts
- The 'Satisfaction Guarantee' was popularized by mail-order pioneer Aaron Montgomery Ward in 1875.
Related words
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