it was cordial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was cordial" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or interaction that was friendly and polite. Example: "The meeting concluded, and although there were disagreements, it was cordial, with everyone maintaining a respectful tone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

But it was cordial, believe it or not.

The Guardian

"It was cordial, but a little heated," Mr. Richardson said in an interview.

The New York Times

Aides to Romney confirmed the conversation had taken place, and said it was cordial.

The New Yorker

With Corzine, it was cordial, but certainly Jon Corzine did not see himself as Frank Lautenberg's protégé.

The New York Times

Sullivan declined to discuss her relationship with Dragas, other than to say that she felt it was "cordial, respectful," until the moment it fell apart.

The New York Times - Magazine

Both sides downplayed the encounter — "It was cordial, unplanned, and they agreed to stay in touch," Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said — but in terms of direct contact it was a first.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"It's cordial and polite, but we're going to get to business.

The New York Times

"Our relationship is fun and it's cordial and it's back to where it should be," Mariucci said.

The New York Times - Sports

Because Aaron was cordial, it signaled that he approved Bonds's ascension.

The New York Times - Sports

Today's ceremony was cordial, but it was all surface-level.

The Guardian

"Kid Rock was cordial about it," he told the publication.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, ensure the subject of "it" is clearly defined in the context to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify 'the meeting' or 'the conversation' before using the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "it was cordial" to describe inherently intimate or emotional situations where genuine warmth and empathy are expected. In such cases, "it was friendly" or "it was warm" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was cordial" functions as a descriptive statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct, providing a positive evaluation of a past interaction or situation, indicating politeness and absence of overt conflict. The examples showcase its use in various news and media contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was cordial" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase that describes a situation or interaction as polite and friendly. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While it is not a particularly common phrase, it appears primarily in news and media contexts, where it serves to convey a sense of civility and absence of conflict. Alternatives such as "it was friendly" or "it was polite" may be more appropriate in less formal situations or when emphasizing genuine warmth. It's important to use the phrase judiciously and in contexts where its nuanced meaning is most fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was friendly

Replaces "cordial" with a more common synonym, emphasizing a warm and amicable interaction.

it was amicable

Substitutes "cordial" with a term highlighting the peaceful and cooperative nature of the interaction.

it was polite

Focuses specifically on the respectful and courteous nature of the interaction.

it was civil

Emphasizes that the interaction avoided hostility and maintained basic standards of etiquette.

it was a pleasant exchange

Highlights the enjoyable and agreeable nature of the interaction.

the interaction was warm

Replaces "cordial" with a term that stresses the friendly and welcoming nature of the exchange.

the atmosphere was agreeable

Shifts the focus from the interaction itself to the overall feeling and mood.

they were on good terms

Indicates a generally positive and respectful relationship between the parties involved.

the meeting was harmonious

Emphasizes the lack of conflict and the presence of agreement and understanding.

the discussion was respectful

Highlights the mutual consideration and regard shown during the conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "it was cordial" in a sentence?

You can use "it was cordial" to describe a meeting, conversation, or interaction that was polite and friendly, even if there were disagreements. For example, "Despite the differing opinions, "it was cordial", and everyone maintained a respectful tone."

What can I say instead of "it was cordial"?

You can use alternatives like "it was friendly", "it was amicable", or "it was polite" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "it was cordial" or "it was cordially"?

"It was cordial" is correct. "Cordially" is an adverb and would typically modify a verb, not describe the overall state of something. You might say "they behaved cordially" but not "it was cordially".

What's the difference between "it was cordial" and "it was warm"?

"It was cordial" suggests politeness and a lack of hostility, even if there wasn't a deep connection. "It was warm" implies genuine friendliness, enthusiasm, and positive emotions were exchanged. The former is more formal and reserved than the latter.