a friendly embrace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a friendly embrace" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a warm and affectionate hug between people, often conveying a sense of comfort or support. Example: "After not seeing each other for years, they greeted each other with a friendly embrace, filled with joy and nostalgia."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

She greeted me with a friendly embrace.

The New York Times - Magazine

He greeted him with a friendly embrace.

The New Yorker

As they read it, Ms. Parry and Mr. Pennington finally unite in a friendly embrace.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Then in May, eyebrows were raised when Banderas was pictured in a very friendly embrace with another woman.

Huffington Post

Some have speculated that Germany's friendly embrace of refugees is a way of expunging historical guilt, and while this interpretation might seem uncharitable, or to let other countries off the hook, many Germans do see a connection between past crimes and current responsibilities.

The Guardian

O'Connell says that he doesn't feel he's got too close to Walmart, and he still holds out hope for that eighteen-wheeler, or, perhaps, for the use of a Walmart warehouse as a gigantic public-art laboratory, but he accepts that the company's friendly embrace might have cost him "some artistic capital".

The New Yorker

Democratic lawmakers, too, know the determinedly friendly embrace of corporate lobbyists.

The Economist

"It's just unbelievable when you look at this friendly embrace of Rick Lazio and Arafat," Mr. Hikind said.

The New York Times

These Olympics will be remembered not only for the friendly embrace of the people and the stunning efficiency of the organizers, but also for the strict control that left the Games feeling devoid of playfulness, passion and festive spirit.

The New York Times - Sports

Business travellers will likely feel Houston's big, warm and friendly embrace throughout their trip to the fourth most populous city in the United States.

BBC

Cheek kissing, friendly embrace, and pats on the back are also vital motions, more often used with people you are familiar with.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a friendly embrace" to describe a warm and affectionate greeting, especially when emphasizing comfort, support, or a positive connection between individuals.

Common error

While "a friendly embrace" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or professional documents where a more neutral term like "warm greeting" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a friendly embrace" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb (e.g., 'greeted with a friendly embrace') or as a descriptive element within a sentence, describing the nature of an interaction. The examples Ludwig provides show this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a friendly embrace" is a noun phrase used to describe a warm and affectionate greeting, often conveying comfort and support. As Ludwig highlights, it's grammatically correct and typically used in news reports and personal narratives. While its frequency is rare, it effectively communicates positive connection. When choosing a synonym, consider "a warm hug" or "an affectionate greeting" for similar effect. Remember to use it judiciously in formal contexts to maintain the appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a warm hug

Replaces the more formal 'embrace' with 'hug', suggesting a slightly less formal and more common expression of affection.

a welcoming hug

Combines the physical act of hugging with the sense of welcome, emphasizing inclusivity.

a tender hug

Emphasizes the gentle and caring nature of the embrace, adding an emotional dimension.

an affectionate greeting

Shifts focus to the greeting itself, emphasizing the loving nature of the interaction.

a kind greeting

Focuses on the benevolence and thoughtfulness behind the greeting, rather than the physical act.

a cheerful greeting

Stresses the happiness and positive emotions associated with the greeting.

a cordial reception

Implies politeness and warmth, suitable for more formal contexts than "a friendly embrace".

a genial reception

Similar to 'cordial', but with a slightly stronger emphasis on cheerfulness and friendliness.

a hearty welcome

Suggests enthusiasm and sincerity in the greeting, differing slightly from the simple warmth of an embrace.

an amicable greeting

Highlights the peaceful and agreeable nature of the greeting, suitable in diplomatic or conciliatory settings.

FAQs

What does "a friendly embrace" mean?

The phrase "a friendly embrace" describes a warm and affectionate hug between people, often conveying comfort, support, or a positive connection.

What can I say instead of "a friendly embrace"?

You can use alternatives like "a warm hug", "an affectionate greeting", or "a cordial reception" depending on the context.

Is "a friendly embrace" formal or informal?

"A friendly embrace" leans towards being slightly informal, suitable for personal narratives, news reports, and less formal communications. More formal contexts might benefit from phrases like "cordial greeting".

How to use "a friendly embrace" in a sentence?

You can use "a friendly embrace" in a sentence like this: "After not seeing each other for years, they greeted each other with a friendly embrace, filled with joy and nostalgia."