god speed

USAGE SUMMARY

"God speed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to wish someone success, or to tell them to go quickly and safely. Example: "We wish you god speed on your journey!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Communication

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

God speed.

The New York Times

God speed, young man.

The Guardian - Sport

God speed, old Kohki!

The Guardian - Sport

God speed, Worksop's finest!

The Guardian - Sport

God speed, Dennis Tito.

The Guardian

"God speed and God bless you".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

His many acquaintances and friends, especially his life partner H.R. (Henry Nicholsonn and Rev Dr. Paul Hasselbeck wish him God-speed.

The New York Times

Kilted pipers stand on the platform, blaring out a God-speed fanfare, as 22 enormous gold and blue carriages gleam in the early-morning sun, fronted by a trio of leviathan locomotives.

BBC

General Landry wishes the team God-speed, and SG-1 steps through the gate on their next mission.

Wikipedia

I live in a world where hip-hop meets scripture, Nas writes the sheets, 9th Wonder drops the beats, Michael Eric Dyson preach brother teach, God-speed let my feet hit these streets -- a revolutionary soldier back on her feet.

Huffington Post

In February, shortly after President Chavez departed for Cuba for his second round of chemotherapy Admiral Anibal Brito wished his commander in chief god-speed, commenting, "Know, illustrious compatriot and masterful leader of the imperative Bolivarian revolution, that with you everything can be accomplished, without you -- nothing".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "god speed" to express sincere good wishes, particularly for someone embarking on a journey or facing a challenging endeavor. It adds a touch of solemnity and tradition to your well-wishing.

Common error

Avoid using "god speed" in contexts where you are referring to the physical velocity of something. The phrase is meant as a blessing or a farewell, not a comment on speed.

Linguistic Context

Interjection: "God speed" primarily functions as an interjection, expressing a wish for someone's success or a safe journey. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, serving to convey good wishes or a blessing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

21%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "god speed" is a phrase used to wish someone well, primarily on a journey or during a challenging task. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it has religious origins, its modern usage is generally neutral and can be found in a variety of contexts, including news, sports, and general communication. Though considered correct, it's crucial to use it appropriately, avoiding confusion with literal references to speed. Consider more modern alternatives like "safe travels" or "best of luck" for a contemporary touch. The phrase carries a tone of solemnity and tradition, making it suitable for heartfelt farewells and significant undertakings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may you have a safe journey

Specifically emphasizes the safety aspect of a trip.

safe travels

A common and concise way to wish someone a safe journey.

have a blessed journey

Similar in meaning, but includes a religious blessing.

bon voyage

A French phrase, meaning "good journey", often used before someone sets off on a trip.

farewell and good luck

Combines a parting wish with an expression of good fortune.

best of luck

Directly conveys the hope that someone will experience favorable outcomes.

may fortune favor you

A more elaborate and somewhat formal way of wishing someone good luck.

wishing you well

A general expression of positive wishes for someone's future.

all the best

A simple and widely applicable expression of good wishes.

have a good one

A casual and versatile way to say goodbye and wish someone well.

FAQs

How can I use "god speed" in a sentence?

You can use "god speed" to wish someone well on a journey or a difficult task. For example, "God speed, and may you find success in your endeavors".

What's a more modern alternative to "god speed"?

While "god speed" carries a traditional tone, you can use phrases like "safe travels", "best of luck", or "wishing you well" for a contemporary feel.

Is it appropriate to use "god speed" in a formal setting?

Yes, "god speed" can be used in formal settings, particularly when offering heartfelt farewells or expressing hopes for success in significant undertakings. However, consider your audience, because using an alternative such as "may fortune favor you" may be more aligned.

What is the origin of the phrase "god speed"?

The phrase "god speed" is an archaic blessing, meaning "may God cause you to prosper". It's a wish for divine help and success.