well-thought-of
/'wel' :t v/
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- receiving deferential regard
- a respected family