well-cared for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "well-cared for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is looked after with attention and care. Example: "The garden was well-cared for, with vibrant flowers and neatly trimmed hedges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

I was assured that he is well-cared for".

The Guardian

Its red upholstery has the patina of years, yet is obviously well-cared for.

BBC

Certainly the facility was well-cared for.

Huffington Post

Tools that are well-cared for will last longer.

WikiHow

Skin should be well-cared for and clear of imperfections.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Briggs looked at this handsome, well-cared-for man.

The New Yorker

My well-fed and well-cared-for cat is an inveterate "mouser".

The New York Times - Magazine

However, a well-cared-for graft can last several years.

Insights into Imaging

She said the Foreign Office had assured her Ms Reid was being well cared-for.

BBC

She said the Foreign Office had assured her that her daughter was being well cared-for.

BBC

Are they new, old, well-cared-for or beat up?

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the condition of an object or place, using "well-cared for" implies not only maintenance but also a degree of affection or dedication from the caretaker.

Common error

While "well-cared for" is perfectly acceptable, overuse in formal contexts can make your writing sound less sophisticated. Consider stronger, more specific synonyms like "meticulously maintained" or "expertly preserved" to add nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "well-cared for" functions as a compound adjective, typically used to describe nouns, indicating that the subject receives proper attention, maintenance, and nurturing. Ludwig confirms its usability. For instance, "a well-cared-for graft can last several years."

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

24%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "well-cared for" is a grammatically sound and usable compound adjective, as confirmed by Ludwig. While it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, its neutral tone makes it suitable for various settings. For formal writing, consider synonyms to enhance precision. Ludwig's examples showcase its consistent use to describe subjects receiving diligent attention and maintenance. Remember, it implies not just upkeep but also a degree of dedication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

well looked after

A more emphatic version of 'looked after', stressing the quality of care.

well-maintained

Focuses on the upkeep and preservation of something, particularly physical objects or systems.

looked after

Emphasizes the act of providing care and attention to someone or something.

well-tended

Similar to 'properly tended', but can also apply to more abstract things like relationships.

properly tended

Implies careful and consistent attention, often in the context of plants or animals.

cared for meticulously

Highlights the thoroughness and attention to detail in the care provided.

nurtured

Suggests fostering growth and development through care and support.

attended to

Focuses on the act of giving attention and addressing the needs of something or someone.

in good hands

Suggests that someone or something is under the care of capable and trustworthy individuals.

preserved

Implies an action taken to keep something in its original state.

FAQs

How can I use "well-cared for" in a sentence?

You can use "well-cared for" to describe something that receives a lot of attention and maintenance. For example, "The garden was "well-cared for", with vibrant flowers and neatly trimmed hedges."

What are some alternatives to "well-cared for"?

Alternatives include "well-maintained", "looked after", or "properly tended", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "well-cared for" formal or informal?

"Well-cared for" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for very formal writing, more sophisticated synonyms might be preferable.

What's the difference between "well-cared for" and "well-maintained"?

While both terms suggest good condition, "well-cared for" implies a personal touch and attention beyond mere maintenance. "Well-maintained" focuses more on the systematic upkeep of something, whereas "well-cared for" suggests affection or dedication.