a feeling of goodwill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a feeling of goodwill" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a positive sentiment or attitude towards others, often in contexts involving kindness, generosity, or a desire for harmony. Example: "During the holiday season, there is often a feeling of goodwill that encourages people to help those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In addition, half the participants, chosen at random, were invited to a series of workshops run by a licensed therapist, to learn a meditation technique intended to engender in the meditator a feeling of goodwill towards both himself and others.

The Economist

All cultures have a feeling of goodwill toward the environment, but the ideas have to be rekindled.

Forbes

We can all grow our muscles by speaking up when the need arises — not speaking up out of anger or indignation, but rather a feeling of goodwill and honest communication. 1. "Anne, can I ask you a favor?

Forbes

Things like a feeling of goodwill for your friends communicated via mashed text messages.

Vice

"In most cases, generosity and a feeling of goodwill are likely to return, at least if they were there to begin with," says Hulstrand.

Huffington Post

Thanking your employer creates a feeling of goodwill with your soon-to-be-ex supervisor.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Hopefully it conveyed a feeling of warmth, goodwill and childish wonder.

The Guardian - Sport

There was a general feeling of goodwill towards iPint: finally a brand had created something digital that wasn't niche and was talked about by consumers just about everywhere.

The Guardian

In a perfect world, there will be "a nice feeling of goodwill along the sale," said Cuthill.

BBC

Given that he is not part of the comedy community there's a huge feeling of goodwill towards him.

The Guardian

The proper response to mere "heartfelt benevolence" on R's part might be no more than a similar feeling of goodwill from Y to R. On the other hand, if R sacrifices greatly in voluntarily and successfully conveying substantial and much-needed benefit on Y, the gratitude Y owes R may take the form of a strong intention or willingness to sacrifice to a similar degree if R ever finds herself in need.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a feeling of goodwill" to describe a general positive sentiment, especially in contexts of community, collaboration, or holidays. It conveys warmth and benevolence.

Common error

While acceptable, avoid relying too heavily on "a feeling of goodwill" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise terms like "benevolence" or "amicability" for enhanced clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a feeling of goodwill" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an emotional state or disposition characterized by kindness and benevolence. Ludwig AI identifies its correct usage across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a feeling of goodwill" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to express positive sentiment, kindness, and benevolence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While suitable for various contexts, it's most common in news and media, wiki pages and scientific writing. For more formal settings, consider stronger alternatives like "benevolence". Remember to use it to foster positive relationships and harmony but be aware that it can be perceived as insincere in negative contexts. Keep in mind that there may be times when concrete action speaks louder than a "feeling of goodwill".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sense of benevolence

Replaces "feeling" with "sense" and "goodwill" with the more formal "benevolence".

a favorable disposition

This alternative is quite similar, but is more formal and implies a positive attitude towards someone or something.

a warm sentiment

Substitutes the entire phrase with a more concise and general expression of positive emotion.

a spirit of amity

Replaces "feeling" with "spirit" and "goodwill" with the more formal "amity", suggesting peaceful harmony.

a kindly disposition

Focuses on the inherent nature of being kind and well-intentioned.

a charitable attitude

Emphasizes the aspect of goodwill that involves generosity and helping others.

a compassionate outlook

Highlights the empathetic aspect of goodwill, focusing on understanding and caring for others.

a friendly atmosphere

Shifts the focus from an internal feeling to the external environment created by goodwill.

a cooperative mindset

Emphasizes the aspect of goodwill that involves working together harmoniously.

a state of grace

Suggests a condition of favor, kindness, and compassion, often used in a more spiritual or elevated context.

FAQs

How can I express "a feeling of goodwill" in simpler terms?

You can use phrases like "kindness", "benevolence", or "friendliness" as alternatives to "a feeling of goodwill". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a feeling of goodwill" and "good intentions"?

"A feeling of goodwill" describes a positive emotion or attitude, while "good intentions" refer to a desire to do something positive, even if the outcome is uncertain. The former is a state of mind, the latter is a motivation.

Is it ever inappropriate to express "a feeling of goodwill"?

While generally positive, expressing "a feeling of goodwill" might be perceived as insincere or naive in situations involving conflict, strong disagreement, or where concrete actions are more appropriate than sentiments. Consider the audience and context carefully.

What are some situations where one might express "a feeling of goodwill"?

Expressing "a feeling of goodwill" is appropriate during holidays, community events, after resolving a conflict, or when welcoming someone new. It helps foster positive relationships and a harmonious environment.