on cordial terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on cordial terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a friendly and harmonious relationship between individuals or groups. Example: "Despite their differences, they managed to remain on cordial terms throughout the negotiations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Trump was a Democratic supporter throughout the Bush Jr years, on cordial terms with Bill Clinton.

The Guardian - Opinion

Thereafter, the two men were probably never on cordial terms, for Servianus posed a constant threat to Hadrian's position.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although socially ambitious, he remained devoted to the members of his family and on cordial terms with fellow artists.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Others are sanguine, still play golf on the weekend and remain on cordial terms with their brokers.

The New York Times

Marty Hoffert, a professor emeritus of physics at New York University who has written extensively on energy demand and global warming, is also on cordial terms with Lovins.

The New Yorker

The bungled operation was a costly embarrassment for Israel, seriously straining relations with King Hussein, the last Arab leader still on cordial terms with Mr. Netanyahu.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

(Flint, incidentally, is on most cordial terms with FitzSimons).

The Guardian

The custom dates back to the civil war, when the monarch and parliament were on less cordial terms.

BBC

The only tough part was getting used to being back at NBC, the network that Mr. Letterman left in 1993 on less than cordial terms.

The New York Times

Indeed, these days, it's fair to say, they are not on the most cordial terms.

Huffington Post

But after an appearance at the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Westchester, Mrs. Clinton mentioned the congressman in only the most cordial terms.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on cordial terms" to describe relationships where politeness and respect are maintained, even if there are underlying disagreements. It suggests a level of civility and mutual regard.

Common error

Avoid using "on cordial terms" to describe relationships that are deeply intimate or involve strong emotional bonds. It's more suitable for formal or professional relationships where maintaining a level of respect is key.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on cordial terms" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, adjective, or noun, typically describing the nature or quality of a relationship between two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

18%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

9%

The Guardian - Sport

3%

Huffington Post

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on cordial terms" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a polite and respectful relationship between individuals or groups, even in the presence of underlying disagreements. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, especially in news and media, encyclopedias and wiki articles, indicating a neutral to formal register. While synonymous with phrases like "on amicable terms" and "on friendly terms", it emphasizes civility and respect, making it suitable for describing professional or formal relationships. Avoid using it in contexts requiring intimate or strongly emotional descriptions. Remember to leverage it to denote civilized and mutually respectful interactions, particularly when potential discord is an underlying factor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on amicable terms

Indicates a friendly agreement or settlement; slightly emphasizes the resolution of potential conflict.

on friendly terms

A more general expression for a positive and agreeable relationship.

on good terms

Implies a generally positive relationship without necessarily emphasizing warmth or closeness.

on amiable terms

Highlights the pleasant and agreeable nature of the relationship.

in a harmonious relationship

Focuses on the balance and agreement within the relationship.

maintaining civil relations

Emphasizes polite and respectful interactions, especially in potentially difficult situations.

having a positive rapport

Highlights the mutual understanding and connection between individuals.

sharing a warm connection

Emphasizes the emotional aspect of a friendly relationship.

enjoying a close relationship

Suggests a deep and intimate bond, going beyond mere cordiality.

being in accord

Highlights agreement and unity of opinion rather than personal warmth.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "on cordial terms" with someone?

Being "on cordial terms" with someone means having a friendly and polite relationship, often in a professional or formal setting. It implies a level of respect and civility, even if there are underlying disagreements.

When is it appropriate to say that two people are "on cordial terms"?

It's appropriate to say that two people are "on cordial terms" when they maintain a polite and respectful relationship, even if they aren't close friends. This phrase is often used in political, business, or professional contexts.

What are some alternatives to saying someone is "on cordial terms" with another person?

You can use alternatives like "on amicable terms", "on friendly terms", or "on good terms" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does being "on cordial terms" differ from being "on good terms"?

While both phrases suggest a positive relationship, "on cordial terms" implies a more formal and polite dynamic, whereas "on good terms" is a more general expression for a positive relationship. "Cordial" emphasizes civility and respect, while "good" simply indicates a lack of conflict.