a token of goodwill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a token of goodwill" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a gesture or item that symbolizes kindness or a positive intention towards someone else. Example: "As a gesture of appreciation for your hard work, we would like to present you with a token of goodwill."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

One is China, which invested about €100m in two recent issues of T-bills as a token of goodwill.

The Economist

She was discovered and extricated in September 1855, in Latitude 67º N. by Captain Buddington of the United States Whaler "George Henry". The ship was purchased, fitted out and sent to England, as a gift to Her Majesty Queen Victoria by the President and People of the United States, as a token of goodwill & friendship.

Johns Hopkins University

The election was more of a ceremonial gesture, a token of goodwill to the concept of democracy.

Vice

They were delivered to the Chinese government as a token of goodwill in return for them lending us the Terracotta Warriors.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Another ran an editorial telling Iran's hardliners, "Your era has passed".An early token of goodwill would be the release of Mir-Hossein Mousavi, the reformist widely thought to have won the election of 2009, and of his fellow candidate, Mehdi Karoubi, both of whom have been under house arrest for the past two years.

The Economist

"It's a token of appreciation".

The New York Times

"Everybody is a token of something," Mr. Sherry said, "a token film composer, a token Romantic, even a token native New Yorker, like Charles Wuorinen".

The New York Times

But it is a token of seriousness.

The Guardian - Opinion

Its difficulty was a token of its transformational powers.

The New Yorker

… It's a token of appreciation, not someone's birthday".

Los Angeles Times

Whom we behold is a token of who we are.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider using "a token of goodwill" to describe actions that promote positive relationships between organizations or nations.

Common error

Avoid using "a token of goodwill" to describe actions that are insincere or self-serving. The phrase implies genuine positive intent, so ensure your usage reflects this.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a token of goodwill" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and appropriate for use. In the examples provided, it describes something given or done to symbolize positive intentions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a token of goodwill" is a noun phrase that signifies a gesture or item representing kindness and positive intent. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and appropriateness. It's generally neutral in tone and finds its use across news, academic and wiki sources. While its frequency is uncommon, its meaning is clear, it serves as a reminder of the importance of sincerity when conveying positive intentions. When considering alternatives, phrases like "a gesture of amity" or "a sign of friendship" can offer subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sign of friendship

Directly indicates a friendly gesture.

a friendly overture

Highlights the openness and friendliness of the gesture.

a gesture of amity

Emphasizes friendship and peaceful relations.

an olive branch

Symbolizes peace and reconciliation.

a symbol of benevolence

Highlights the charitable and kind nature of the gesture.

a gracious gift

Emphasizes the elegance and kindness of the gift.

an act of conciliation

Focuses on restoring friendly relations.

an amicable expression

Focuses on the friendly and harmonious nature of the expression.

a measure of grace

Suggests a courteous and considerate action.

a peace offering

Implies a gesture to resolve conflict.

FAQs

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

You can use "a token of goodwill" to describe a gesture or gift that symbolizes kindness or positive intent. For example, "The company offered a small gift as "a token of goodwill" after the service disruption".

What phrases are similar to "a token of goodwill"?

Similar phrases include "a gesture of friendship", "a sign of peace", or "an act of kindness". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a token of goodwill" in formal writing?

Yes, "a token of goodwill" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing diplomatic efforts, business relationships, or acts of charity.

What's the difference between "a token of goodwill" and "a gesture of goodwill"?

While similar, "a token of goodwill" often refers to a tangible item given as a symbol, while "a gesture of goodwill" can be an action or statement. However, they are often used interchangeably.