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.

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