“Good” vs. “Well”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “good” and “well”

  • "Good" is primarily used as an adjective or noun, while "well" is typically used as an adverb or adjective, with "well" as an adverb meaning in a favorable or satisfactory way.
  • "Good" (adjective) means pleasant or desired, while "well" (adjective) means healthy or in a favorable position or state.
  • "Good" (noun) means that which is morally right or a benefit to something or someone, while "well" (noun) is a shaft that contains water.
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What is the definition of “good” and “well”?

Good
  • "Good" is an adjective often used to describe the quality of something or someone.
  • It can also refer to a moral or ethical standard, suggesting that something or someone is virtuous.
  • The word "good" can also be used as a noun, such as in the phrase "the common good."
Well
  • "Well" is commonly used as an adverb to describe how something is done in a favorable manner or how someone is feeling.
  • It can also refer to a state of health or general condition, such as in the phrase "I am doing well."
  • "Well" can be used as an adjective when referring to something that is satisfactory or pleasing, as in "a well-rounded education."

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Well” is the more popular variant on the web.
Good
11,340,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The cookies tasted good.
  2. That was a good movie we saw yesterday.
  3. She was a good listener and gave great advice.
More popular
Well
11,500,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. He performed well on his math exam.
  2. After taking medication, I feel well enough to go to work.
  3. The chef cooked the steak perfectly well.
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