cordial words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cordial words" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe friendly or warm expressions in communication, often in a formal or polite context. Example: "In her letter, she included some cordial words to express her gratitude for their support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But behind the cordial words, the relationship is strained.

The Guardian

But on September 13th Mr Arafat is scheduled to be in Damascus, the latest phase in the slow rapprochement with Syria's president, Bashar Assad, that began when the two men met and exchanged cordial words at an Arab summit in March.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

According to the Chinese media, Xi had cordial, conciliatory words for America's soon-to-be forty-fifth President, declaring  Trump that "developing long-term healthy and stable Sino-U.S. relations is in the fundamental interests of the peoples of both countries".

The New Yorker

I expected a cordial discussion.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was a cordial discussion".

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Cheney makes only cameo appearances in the museum exhibits, and in an interview broadcast this week, the younger Mr. Bush described their relationship as "cordial" — a word that left the impression that the two were not close because of their fight in the waning days of the administration over a pardon for the vice president's former chief of staff.

The New York Times

Walking from table to table at a campaign stop at a diner in Cherry Hill this afternoon, he received cordial handshakes and words of encouragement, but little of the raucous enthusiasm that comes at the end of many hard-fought campaigns.

The New York Times

At Helsinki the delegation sources inevitably included the word "cordial" in their descrip tion of the meetings.

The New York Times

In a television debate on Monday, which the Boston Globe described as "cordial" — not a word used often this campaign season — he trotted out the by now familiar line that Shaheen had voted with President Obama ninety-nine per cent of the time.

The New Yorker

In a television debate on Monday, which the Boston Globe described as "cordial"—not a word used often this campaign season—he trotted out the by now familiar line that Shaheen had voted with President Obama ninety-nine per cent of the time.

The New Yorker

The word "cordial," which is used in nearly every Vatican statement about the pope's talks with a world leader, did not appear.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cordial words" to describe communication that is polite, friendly, and avoids conflict, especially in formal or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "cordial words" in casual conversations where more relaxed or familiar language would be more appropriate. Overuse in informal settings can sound stilted or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cordial words" functions as a noun phrase, where "cordial" modifies the noun "words". Ludwig indicates that it is used to describe polite and friendly expressions. It serves to characterize the nature of the communication.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cordial words" describes friendly and polite expressions, often used in formal or professional settings. While Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness, it's relatively rare in general usage. Related phrases include "friendly remarks" and "warm greetings". While the phrase is correct it should be avoided in casual conversation to prevent the sound of being stilted or insincere.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

friendly remarks

Replaces "cordial" with a more common synonym, emphasizing the friendliness of the words.

warm greetings

Focuses on the warmth and sincerity of the expression.

polite expressions

Highlights the politeness and good manners conveyed by the words.

gracious comments

Emphasizes the courteous and refined nature of the remarks.

amiable statements

Stresses the friendly and agreeable quality of the statements.

pleasant conversation

Shifts the focus to the overall interaction rather than just the words themselves.

civil discourse

Highlights the respectful and well-mannered nature of the exchange.

harmonious exchange

Focuses on the agreement and lack of conflict in the conversation.

agreeable dialogue

Emphasizes the pleasantness and lack of disagreement in the conversation.

respectful communication

Highlights the mutual respect shown in the exchange.

FAQs

How can I use "cordial words" in a sentence?

You can use "cordial words" to describe the tone or content of a conversation, letter, or speech. For instance, "The diplomats exchanged "cordial words" before beginning negotiations."

What are some synonyms for "cordial words"?

Alternatives include "friendly remarks", "warm greetings", or "polite expressions", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "cordial words"?

It is appropriate in formal settings, professional correspondence, or situations where maintaining a polite and respectful tone is important. It might be less suitable in casual or intimate conversations.

What's the difference between "cordial words" and "sincere words"?

"Cordial words" emphasize politeness and friendliness, while "sincere words" focus on genuineness and heartfelt expression. You might use "cordial words" to start a business meeting, and "sincere words" to express condolences.