well

/wel/
adverbinterjectionnounBeginner
formalinformal

In a satisfactory or good manner; to a good or sufficient extent.

She performed well in the competition.

She did very well in the competition.

The project is going well.

The project is progressing smoothly.

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Often used to describe how something is done or how something is going.

formalinformal

A source of water, such as a spring or a hole dug into the ground.

We found a well in the middle of the forest.

We discovered a water well in the forest.

The villagers rely on the well for drinking water.

The villagers depend on the well for their water supply.

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Can also refer to a source of something other than water, such as a well of knowledge.

formalinformal

A state of being in good health or in good condition.

I hope you're feeling well.

I hope you're feeling healthy.

The patient is doing well after the surgery.

The patient is recovering well after the surgery.

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Often used to inquire about someone's health or well-being.

Collocations

well doneUsed to praise someone for doing something well.well offHaving a lot of money or being financially secure.well knownFamiliar or recognized by many people.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

as well asphrase
In addition to; also
well and trulyphrase
Completely and thoroughly
well worth itphrase
Valuable or beneficial enough to justify the effort or cost

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The meaning of 'well' can vary greatly depending on the context. Pay attention to whether it's used as an adverb, noun, or interjection to understand its intended meaning.

Gold Rule

Adverb Usage

When 'well' is used as an adverb, it typically modifies a verb to describe how an action is performed. For example, 'She sings well' means she sings in a good or satisfactory manner.

📖Word Origin

Old English 'welle,' from Proto-Germanic 'wella,' meaning 'spring, stream.' Related to Old Norse 'vellr' and Old High German 'wella.'

📝Usage Notes

The word 'well' is highly versatile and can function as an adverb, interjection, or noun depending on the context. As an adverb, it often modifies verbs to indicate how something is done. As a noun, it refers to a source of water. As an interjection, it can express surprise, agreement, or other emotions.

Word Breakdown

well
Good or satisfactory
root
English Dictionary