good-natured comments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "good-natured comments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe remarks that are friendly, kind, and intended to be taken in a positive manner. Example: "During the meeting, she made several good-natured comments that lightened the mood and encouraged open discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A quick check of social media turned up people posting photos of the Gillette giveaway, with good-natured comments wondering why they had received it.

The New York Times

Careful to throw in plenty of good-natured comments like, "I am sure they meant well... .. he often writes like the scrupulous "God boy" he wanted to be as a child.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Steinbrenner, who always liked Gossage despite some of his comments, responded with a good-natured remark.

The New York Times

Make a good-natured announcement that comments about how much or how little someone is eating are off limits, she said.

The New York Times - Health

American newspaper columnist, author, humorist, and political satirist, who used good-natured humour to comment slyly and trenchantly on a wide range of social and political matters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

August 14 , 1925Loudoun, Virginia Russell Baker, in full Russell Wayne Baker (born August 14 , 1925 Loudoun county, Virginia, U.S ., American newspaper columnist, author, humorist, and political satirist, who used good-natured humour to comment slyly and trenchantly on a wide range of social and political matters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Russell Baker, in full Russell Wayne Baker, (born August 14 , 1925 Loudoun county, Virginia, U.S. died January 21 , 2019 Leesburg, Virginia), American newspaper columnist, author, humorist, and political satirist, who used good-natured humour to comment slyly and trenchantly on a wide range of social and political matters.

Britannica

Mr. Biden accepted some good-natured ribbing about a comment he made in Philadelphia in February, likening La Guardia to an airport in a "third-world country". Mr. Cuomo suggested the source of that remark could have been Gov. Rick Perry of Texas, Jay Leno or even Donald Trump.

The New York Times

After the man left, Ballmer seemed good-natured about the incident, commenting that the man "broke his train of thought".

TechCrunch

He received "good-natured boos" for the comment, according to a pool report.

Huffington Post

According to witnesses posting comments on social media, a largely good-natured crowd were told to disperse by police officers, prompting some to start throwing bottles.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "good-natured comments", ensure the context clearly indicates that the remarks are intended to be positive and not sarcastic or passive-aggressive. Use it to set a tone of friendliness and openness.

Common error

Avoid using "good-natured comments" when the situation is serious or requires sensitivity. Ensure your audience perceives the comments as genuinely positive, otherwise, it can be misconstrued as dismissive or inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "good-natured comments" primarily functions as a descriptive phrase, where 'good-natured' modifies the noun 'comments'. It describes the quality or nature of the comments being made. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is usable and grammatically correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "good-natured comments" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe friendly and positive remarks. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While not extremely common, it is frequently found in news, encyclopedias, and wikis, emphasizing a tone of friendliness and openness. Remember to ensure the context is appropriate for such remarks to avoid misinterpretations, and consider alternatives like "friendly remarks" or "lighthearted remarks depending on the situation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

friendly remarks

Emphasizes the amicable and warm quality of the comments.

amiable comments

Highlights the pleasant and agreeable nature of the comments.

good-humored remarks

Focuses on the lighthearted and cheerful aspect of the comments.

affable comments

Stresses the ease and graciousness of the comments.

lighthearted remarks

Emphasizes the lack of seriousness or weight in the comments.

jovial comments

Highlights the cheerful and playful quality of the comments.

good-spirited remarks

Focuses on the positive and generous attitude behind the comments.

pleasant remarks

Underscores the agreeable and pleasing nature of the comments.

cordial comments

Emphasizes the warmth and sincerity of the comments.

benevolent remarks

Highlights the kind and well-meaning intention of the comments.

FAQs

How can I use "good-natured comments" in a sentence?

You can use "good-natured comments" to describe remarks that are friendly and positive in intent. For example, "The comedian's routine was filled with "good-natured comments" about everyday life".

What are some alternatives to "good-natured comments"?

Alternatives include "friendly remarks", "good-humored remarks", or "lighthearted remarks depending on the context".

What's the difference between "good-natured comments" and "sarcastic remarks"?

"Good-natured comments" are intended to be positive and friendly, while sarcastic remarks often use irony or mockery to convey a negative or critical message. The tone and intent are key differentiators.

Is it always appropriate to make "good-natured comments"?

No, it depends on the context. In serious or sensitive situations, "good-natured comments" might be inappropriate or perceived as dismissive. Always consider your audience and the situation before making such remarks.