Definition

Adjective 1. Held in high esteem or regard; respected: Describes a person, group, or thing that is viewed favorably and with respect by others. - Example: He is a well-thought-of member of the community. 2. Having a good reputation: Indicates that someone or something is considered reputable and of good standing. - Example: It's a well-thought-of institution with a long history.

Usage Examples

• As an adjective before a noun:
  • She comes from a well-thought-of family in the city.
  • The company only hires from well-thought-of universities.
• As a predicate adjective (after a linking verb like 'is', 'was', 'seems'):
  • His opinion is well-thought-of in academic circles.
  • That brand used to be very well-thought-of.

Advanced Usage Notes

• Formality: "Well-thought-of" is a moderately formal compound adjective. It is often used in written and spoken English to convey respectability.
• Hyphenation: The hyphens are essential when the phrase is used as an adjective before a noun (e.g., ). When used after a verb, hyphens are sometimes omitted (e.g., ), but hyphenation is generally recommended for clarity as a single descriptive term.
• Nuance: It emphasizes the of people's consideration—their favorable opinion—rather than the process of thinking itself.

Variants and Related Words

• Highly regarded: A very close synonym, often interchangeable.
  • Example: She is a highly regarded expert in her field.
• Respected: A more common and direct synonym.
  • Example: a respected leader
• Reputable: Focuses more on the good reputation itself.
  • Example: a reputable business
• Esteemed: Slightly more formal and implies great respect.
  • Example: an esteemed colleague

Synonyms

• Respected
• Esteemed
• Reputable
• Honored
• Venerated (implies deeper reverence)
• Of good repute

Antonyms

• Disreputable
• Notorious
• Looked down upon
• Disrespected

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To be held in high regard: A formal phrase with a very similar meaning.
  • Example: The retiring director is held in high regard by all her staff.
• To have a good name: An idiom meaning to have a good reputation.
  • Example: In business, it's important to have a good name.

Adjective

1. receiving deferential regard
   • a respected family