unfriendly greetings

USAGE SUMMARY

"unfriendly greetings" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a situation where someone is greeted in a cold or hostile manner. Example: "Despite the cheerful decorations, the party was filled with unfriendly greetings." Alternative expressions include "hostile welcomes," "cold salutations," and "icy hellos."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

That was decidedly unfriendly.

The New York Times

They are not unfriendly.

The New York Times

It's quite unfriendly".

The Guardian

"Greetings everybody.

Independent

Greetings, Loungers!

The New Yorker

He described him as unfriendly.

The New York Times

It seems unfriendly.

The New York Times - Style

Greetings, wormhole.

The Economist

Greetings, friends!

The New Yorker

Christmas Greetings.

The New Yorker

* * * Greetings, yogis!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scenario, consider using more vivid language to illustrate the nature of the "unfriendly greetings". Describe specific behaviors or interactions that demonstrate the lack of warmth.

Common error

Avoid using "unfriendly greetings" in highly formal contexts where more nuanced descriptions of interpersonal dynamics are expected. Instead, opt for more specific and professional language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unfriendly greetings" functions as a noun phrase that describes the quality or nature of greetings exchanged between individuals. It implies a lack of warmth, cordiality, or goodwill in the way people acknowledge each other.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Academia

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Science

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Less common in

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unfriendly greetings" describes a lack of warmth or cordiality in how individuals are greeted. While grammatically correct, its usage is rare, according to Ludwig. Similar phrases include "cold welcome" and "hostile reception". When using this phrase, consider the level of formality required by the context and ensure that your writing clearly illustrates the behaviors associated with "unfriendly greetings".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cold welcome

Emphasizes the lack of warmth in the reception.

chilly reception

Similar to "cold welcome", but perhaps slightly less severe.

hostile reception

Highlights the antagonism present in the greeting.

antagonistic greetings

Directly states the presence of antagonism in the greetings.

icy salutations

Suggests a formal but unwelcoming greeting.

inhospitable welcome

Highlights the lack of hospitality during the welcome.

unwelcoming gestures

Focuses on non-verbal cues indicating a lack of hospitality.

grim welcomes

Emphasizes the somber or bleak nature of the greetings.

unpleasant greetings

A general term for greetings that are not positive.

offensive greetings

Highlights the potential for the greetings to be hurtful or disrespectful.

FAQs

How can I describe greetings that are not necessarily hostile, but simply lack warmth?

Consider using terms like "cold welcome", "chilly reception", or "unenthusiastic greetings" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what situations might someone receive "unfriendly greetings"?

Situations where there is pre-existing animosity, competition, or misunderstanding can lead to "unfriendly greetings". This could be in political settings, business negotiations, or even social gatherings with strained relationships.

What are some non-verbal cues that might accompany "unfriendly greetings"?

Non-verbal cues could include avoiding eye contact, offering a limp handshake, maintaining a rigid posture, or displaying a lack of facial expression. These cues often reinforce the lack of warmth in the verbal greeting.

Are there more formal alternatives to "unfriendly greetings" for academic writing?

Yes, in academic writing, you might use phrases such as "a reception characterized by a lack of cordiality", "greetings marked by evident interpersonal tension", or "a demonstrably unwelcoming interaction".