mutual goodwill

USAGE SUMMARY

"mutual goodwill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two or more people, organizations, or nations that have a desire to work together in a spirit of harmony. For example: The two countries agreed to sign the treaty in a spirit of mutual goodwill.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The cricket is supposed to enhance mutual goodwill, and so help the overall peace process.

The Economist

Arranged ad hoc and informally, they depend on the mutual goodwill and trust of the central banks involved.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr Kennedy discussed it with the prime minister when they agreed, amid expressions of mutual goodwill, to suspend the joint consultative committee.

The Guardian

It is all at once very extraordinary and very natural, and it testifies to the essential solidarity and immense mutual goodwill of all ranks and classes in the nation.

The Guardian

Something strange is happening on the banks of the Humber, where Hull's stirring success in reaching their first Challenge Cup final in 20 years has led to an unprecedented outbreak of mutual goodwill between the city's fierce rugby league rivals.

The Guardian - Sport

It is an enduring myth – perpetrated by the famous picture of Andrew Flintoff crouching down to console Brett Lee after victory at Edgbaston – that the series four years ago was bathed in 24-hour-a-day mutual goodwill.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

A social ethic that recognizes the importance of the values of mutual help, goodwill, and reciprocity is the kind of ethic that will counter the lack of human self-sufficiency in respect of talents and capacities and in many ways help realize his basic needs.

SEP

It was a remarkable day.For all the mutual shows of goodwill, peace remains an elusive goal.

The Economist

There is a much greater sense of trust and mutual respect and goodwill than there was the last time the synod voted".

The Guardian

FOR all the talk of security breaches and boycotts, the first Saudi Arabian state visit to Britain in 20 years passed off as these things usually do with mutual expressions of goodwill and a few minor agreements.

The Economist

This will boost the coalition's efforts at a critical time.The America-Russia summit highlighted the determination of our respective leaders to forge a new relationship based on goodwill, mutual respect and an honest understanding of each other's interests.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about international relations or negotiations, use "mutual goodwill" to emphasize a positive starting point or desired outcome. It suggests a willingness to cooperate and find common ground.

Common error

Don't rely on "goodwill" alone; always specify that it's "mutual" when you want to convey that it is reciprocated between parties. Using "goodwill" by itself can imply a one-sided gesture, diminishing the intended effect of reciprocity and partnership.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mutual goodwill" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly denotes a shared positive sentiment or cooperative intention.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mutual goodwill" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies a shared positive and cooperative attitude between parties. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples of its use in various contexts. While not extremely common, the phrase is appropriate for formal, neutral and professional settings, particularly in discussions about relationships, negotiations, and international affairs. Related phrases like "amicable relations" offer similar meanings, and using the term correctly involves ensuring that the "goodwill" is explicitly reciprocated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

amicable relations

Highlights the friendly and peaceful nature of the interactions.

reciprocal kindness

Highlights the give-and-take nature of the positive interaction.

reciprocal amity

Stresses the back-and-forth exchange of friendly feelings.

shared benevolence

Emphasizes the shared aspect of kindness and generosity.

harmonious accord

Focuses on the agreement and lack of conflict within the relationship.

joint beneficence

Highlights the shared acts of kindness and generosity.

joint harmony

Emphasizes the unified and peaceful nature of the relationship.

cooperative spirit

Highlights the willingness to work together harmoniously.

concordant fellowship

Emphasizes the harmonious and companionable nature of the relationship.

common understanding

Focuses on the shared comprehension that fosters positive relations.

FAQs

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

You can use "mutual goodwill" to describe a situation where two or more parties have a friendly or cooperative attitude towards each other. For example: "The agreement was reached in a spirit of mutual goodwill."

What are some alternatives to "mutual goodwill"?

Alternatives to "mutual goodwill" include "shared benevolence", "reciprocal kindness", or "amicable relations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "mutual goodwill" formal or informal?

"Mutual goodwill" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as news reports, business communications, and academic papers. Its use conveys a sense of professionalism and respect.

What's the difference between "mutual goodwill" and "mutual respect"?

"Mutual goodwill" implies a friendly and cooperative attitude, whereas "mutual respect" focuses on acknowledging and valuing each other's worth, even if there is disagreement. While they often go hand in hand, "mutual respect" is a prerequisite for a productive professional relationship, while "mutual goodwill" describes a positive feeling shared between people that can lead to cooperation and understanding.