Definition

Adjective: 1. Deeply and sincerely felt; genuine: Describes emotions, feelings, or expressions that are profoundly sincere and come from one's true inner self, without pretense or artificiality. 2. Earnest and ardent: Characterized by deep earnestness and intensity of feeling.

Usage

The adjective "heartfelt" is used to modify nouns related to emotions, sentiments, or expressions of those sentiments. It emphasizes the authenticity and depth of the feeling being described. It is a formal and emphatic word, commonly used in written and spoken English to convey deep sincerity.

Examples

• She sent a heartfelt letter of apology. (The apology expressed in the letter was deeply sincere.)
• Please accept my heartfelt thanks for your generosity. (The thanks are genuine and come from a deep sense of gratitude.)
• The actor delivered a heartfelt speech upon receiving the award. (The speech was sincere and emotionally genuine.)
• Their heartfelt condolences brought some comfort to the grieving family. (The expressions of sympathy were profoundly sincere.)

Advanced Usage

• "Heartfelt" can be used in both positive contexts (thanks, congratulations, joy) and somber contexts (condolences, apologies, sympathy).
• It often appears in formal or semi-formal correspondence, speeches, and literature to add weight and sincerity to an expression.

Variants and Related Words

• Heartfeltly (adverb): In a heartfelt manner.
  • He thanked them heartfully for their support.
• Unfeigned (adjective): Not pretended; sincere. (A close synonym, though less common.)
• Heartwarming (adjective): Emotionally rewarding or uplifting. (While positive, it focuses more on the effect of causing warm feelings rather than the sincerity of the source.)

Synonyms

• Sincere
• Genuine
• Deep-felt
• Profound
• Earnest
• Unfeigned

Antonyms

• Insincere
• Hollow
• Perfunctory
• Feigned
• Artificial

Idioms and Common Phrases

• From the bottom of one's heart: A phrase with a very similar meaning to "heartfelt," expressing that something is said or felt with utmost sincerity.
  • I thank you from the bottom of my heart. (This is equivalent to saying "I offer my heartfelt thanks.")

Adjective

1. earnest
   • one's dearest wish
   • devout wishes for their success
   • heartfelt condolences