well-meaning

/'wel'mi:ni /
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well-meaning

A well-meaning neighbor brought over a casserole after hearing about the family's recent loss.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Having or showing good intentions: The word "well-meaning" describes a person, action, or statement that is intended to be helpful, kind, or beneficial, regardless of the actual outcome.
    • Characterized by a desire to do good: It emphasizes the positive motive behind an action, even if the action itself is misguided, ineffective, or produces an unfortunate result.
Usage
  • Describing a person: Used to indicate that someone's motives are good and kind.
    • He is a well-meaning neighbor who always tries to help.
  • Describing an action or effort: Used to describe attempts that are made with good intent.
    • Her well-meaning advice, however, was not very practical.
  • Describing words or criticism: Used for comments meant to be constructive or helpful.
    • The feedback was well-meaning but poorly delivered.
Examples
Advanced Usage
  • "Well-meaning but...": This is a common construction used to acknowledge good intent while highlighting a negative aspect such as clumsiness, ineffectiveness, or lack of understanding.
    • She is a well-meaning but overly intrusive friend.
    • It was a well-meaning but ultimately failed policy.
Variants and Related Words
  • Well-intentioned (adjective): A direct synonym, meaning having good intentions.
    • His well-intentioned gesture was misunderstood.
  • Well-meant (adjective): Typically used to describe actions or words that were meant well.
    • She offered some well-meant criticism.
Synonyms
  • Benevolent: Well-meaning and kindly.
  • Good-hearted: Having a kind and sympathetic nature.
  • Kindly: Having, showing, or proceeding from a benevolent disposition.
Antonyms
  • Malicious: Characterized by malice; intending or intended to do harm.
  • Ill-intentioned: Having bad or harmful intentions.
Idioms and Phrases
  • The road to hell is paved with good intentions: This proverb relates to the concept of "well-meaning," suggesting that good intentions do not necessarily lead to good outcomes and can sometimes cause harm.
well-meaning

A well-meaning neighbor brought over a casserole after hearing about the family's recent loss.

Adjective
  1. marked by good intentions though often producing unfortunate results
    • a well-intentioned but clumsy waiter
    • a well-meaning but tactless fellow
    • the son's well-meaning efforts threw a singular chill upon the father's admirers- S.W.Maughm
    • blunt but well-meant criticism
  2. not unfriendly or threatening
    • her well-meaning words were received in silence
    • the exasperation of a...well-meaning cow worried by dogs

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