goodwill gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

"goodwill gesture" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe an action or gesture that is done to show kindness or goodwill towards someone else. It can be used in many different scenarios, such as in business, politics, or personal relationships. Example: As a sign of goodwill, the company offered to donate a portion of its profits to a local charity. In an effort to improve relations, the two nations exchanged several goodwill gestures, including releasing political prisoners and signing trade agreements. As a goodwill gesture, the host invited his neighbor over for dinner to welcome them to the neighborhood.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was almost a goodwill gesture, really," Grime says.

The Guardian - Sport

The company has now made a goodwill gesture of £100.

The Guardian - Money

Even just as a goodwill gesture, it would be important".

The Guardian

"It's a goodwill gesture on their part," she said.

The New York Times

A spokesperson said Czechowicz had accepted a £100 goodwill gesture.

The Guardian - Money

Israel considers the Ramadan permits a goodwill gesture toward Palestinians.

The Guardian

I was offered a goodwill gesture of £30 because of the problems.

Independent

It has, further, credited your account with £100 as a goodwill gesture.

The Guardian - Money

The company has also promised a goodwill gesture, most likely through an adjustment to your bill.

The Guardian - Money

All they have offered him is €5 as a "goodwill gesture", which adds insult to injury.

The Guardian - Money

The lower of your quotes – £244 – will be met, plus £25 as a goodwill gesture.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "goodwill gesture" to describe specific actions that demonstrate positive intent, especially in situations requiring diplomacy or reconciliation. For example, releasing a hostage is a "goodwill gesture".

Common error

Avoid using "goodwill gesture" in everyday, casual situations where simpler terms like "kindness" or "favor" would be more appropriate. Overuse can make your language sound overly formal or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "goodwill gesture" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It describes an action or offering that is intended to create or improve positive relations, such as offering compensation or releasing prisoners.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "goodwill gesture" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes an action intended to create or improve a relationship. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts. It's primarily found in news and media, formal business settings, and wiki sources, indicating a neutral to professional register. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives such as "friendly overture" or "conciliatory act" in more informal contexts. Using "goodwill gesture" strategically enhances communication, particularly in situations where diplomacy and positive relations are key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

token of goodwill

Indicates a symbolic expression of positive intent.

gesture of friendship

Emphasizes the friendly nature of the action.

friendly overture

Focuses on the initiation of a friendly relationship.

act of kindness

Focuses on the compassionate nature of the action.

conciliatory act

Emphasizes the intention to reconcile or appease.

amicable move

Highlights the friendly and peaceful nature of the action.

harmonious step

Highlights the promotion of harmony and agreement.

benevolent action

Stresses the kindness and generosity behind the action.

gracious act

Emphasizes the courtesy and elegance of the action.

peace offering

Implies an attempt to restore peace or harmony.

FAQs

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

You can use "goodwill gesture" to describe an action intended to create goodwill. For example: "The company offered a discount as a "goodwill gesture" after the product malfunctioned."

What are some alternatives to "goodwill gesture"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "friendly overture", "conciliatory act", or "gesture of friendship" to express a similar sentiment.

When is it appropriate to use the term "goodwill gesture"?

It's appropriate when describing actions taken to improve relationships, resolve conflicts, or show kindness, particularly in formal or professional contexts. It's often used in diplomacy, business negotiations, or customer service.

What is the difference between a "goodwill gesture" and a "kind gesture"?

While both express positive intent, a "goodwill gesture" often has a strategic or relational purpose beyond simple kindness. A "kind gesture" might be purely altruistic, while a "goodwill gesture" is often aimed at building or repairing a relationship.