Expressing sincere hope for another person's happiness, health, or success.
Reach for it when describing a message, gesture, or crowd whose goodwill is supportive but not necessarily close
A well-wishing crowd applauded every runner across the bridge.
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm |
|
| professional | |
| formal |
everyday
Fits when pleasant social goodwill is enough
Careful Friendly does not necessarily include a sincere wish for future well-being.
everyday
Fits when optimism about the outcome is the focus
Careful Hopeful can describe the recipient's own state rather than goodwill from others.
warm
Fits when words increase confidence or willingness to continue
Careful Encouragement concerns motivation, while well-wishing can simply express hope for a good outcome.
professional
congratulatory
Fits when the message responds to an achievement
Careful Congratulations look backward at success, while well-wishing often concerns what comes next.
professional
Fits when goodwill is backed by emotional or practical help
Careful Supportive is a stronger conduct claim than a well-wishing message alone can prove.
formal
Fits when a kindly desire for others' welfare is the central attitude
Careful Benevolent can sound distant or paternal in a personal note.
well-wishing message
Her well-wishing message named the courage the move had required.
well-wishing friends
Well-wishing friends respected the couple's request for a quiet ceremony.
well-wishing crowd
The well-wishing crowd left the hospital entrance clear for patients.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated
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