Well-meaning (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Not unfriendly or threatening; "her well-meaning words were received in silence"; "the exasperation of a...well-meaning cow worried by dogs".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- Her well-meaning advice to quit smoking was met with resistance from her friend who had been trying to quit for years.
- The well-meaning gesture of holding the door open for the woman with her hands full was much appreciated by her.
- The teacher's well-meaning but clumsy attempt to relate to her students only ended in awkwardness.
- Despite his well-meaning intentions, the neighbor's attempts to help with the yard work only caused more mess.
- The politician's well-meaning but poorly executed speech sparked a heated debate about her policies.
Synonyms
Meaning 2
Marked by good intentions though often producing unfortunate results; "a well-intentioned but clumsy waiter"; "a well-meaning but tactless fellow"; "the son's well-meaning efforts threw a singular chill upon the father's admirers"- S.W.Maughm; "blunt but well-meant criticism".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The well-meaning but inexperienced teacher unintentionally created more chaos in the classroom than order.
- Her well-meaning efforts to help her friend only led to further complications.
- Although he was well-meaning, his lack of tact made it difficult for him to make friends.
- The well-meaning but misguided philanthropist inadvertently caused more problems for the community he was trying to help.
- The politician's well-meaning legislation was criticized for its unintended consequences and lack of foresight.