a gesture of goodwill

USAGE SUMMARY

"a gesture of goodwill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action that is meant to be kind or helpful in order to build a better relationship or improve a situation. For example, "She offered to help clean up as a gesture of goodwill."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Was that a gesture of goodwill by the regime?

The Economist

But they threw in England as a gesture of goodwill".

The Guardian - Sport

In addition, we have offered a gesture of goodwill".

The Guardian - Money

We have also provided a gesture of goodwill [of £100] for the inconvenience caused".

Independent

A spokesman apologised, adding: "As a gesture of goodwill, we've added £50 to the sum owed".

Independent

An offer of £100 as a gesture of goodwill has also been made".

Independent

As "a gesture of goodwill", Mr Kabbah told Executive Outcomes to leave.

The Economist

We have also added a gesture of goodwill which has reduced the balance further to £200".

Independent

Npower agreed to clear your account as a gesture of goodwill.

Independent

Israel has just agreed to release more than 100 Palestinian prisoners as a gesture of goodwill.

The New York Times

He and Mr. Balentina would take the guitar to Mr. Frampton as a gesture of goodwill.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a gesture of goodwill" to describe actions that go beyond the expected, particularly in situations involving negotiation, conflict resolution, or customer service. It adds a layer of positive intent.

Common error

Avoid using "a gesture of goodwill" for everyday courtesies. Save it for situations where the act is genuinely significant and intended to foster a better relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gesture of goodwill" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific action or offering that is intended to convey positive intentions or improve relations. Ludwig AI confirms the usability of the phrase in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a gesture of goodwill" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase that describes an action intended to foster positive relationships or resolve conflicts. Ludwig AI validates its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and formal communications. While alternatives like "a friendly overture" or "a peace offering" exist, "a gesture of goodwill" carries a specific weight, suggesting a deliberate act to create or restore amity. It's best used in situations where the action is substantial and genuinely intended to improve relations, not for routine politeness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an amicable gesture

Emphasizes the friendliness and lack of hostility in the action.

a gracious offering

Highlights the politeness and generosity of the gesture.

a benevolent act

Stresses the charitable and generous nature of the action.

a friendly overture

Implies an approach made in a friendly manner.

a show of kindness

Underscores the element of benevolence and generosity.

a peace offering

Suggests something given to initiate or restore peace.

an act of reconciliation

Emphasizes the restoration of friendly relations.

a conciliatory measure

Highlights actions taken to reconcile or make peace.

a token of appeasement

Focuses on the act of pacifying or placating someone, often in response to conflict.

a favor

Focuses on the act of doing something helpful or beneficial for someone.

FAQs

How can I use "a gesture of goodwill" in a sentence?

You can use "a gesture of goodwill" to describe an action meant to create a positive impression or improve relations. For example, "The company offered a discount as "a gesture of goodwill" after the service delay."

What are some alternatives to "a gesture of goodwill"?

Some alternatives include "a friendly overture", "a peace offering", or "a conciliatory measure", depending on the context.

Is "gesture of good will" the same as "a gesture of goodwill"?

Yes, "a gesture of good will" and "a gesture of goodwill" are essentially the same, although "a gesture of goodwill" is the more common and accepted phrasing.

When is it appropriate to offer "a gesture of goodwill"?

It is appropriate to offer "a gesture of goodwill" when you want to show sincerity, mend a relationship, or compensate for an inconvenience. This shows that you are interested in maintaining positive relations.