well
/wɛl/ IELTSAcademic
adverb
In a good, satisfactory, or correct way. It describes how something is done, or how someone is doing.
- She speaks English very well.
- Did you sleep well last night?
adjective
Healthy or in good condition. It can also mean suitable or satisfactory in some phrases.
- I feel well today.
- The plan is well for our team.
noun
A deep hole or shaft in the ground that gives water, oil, or gas.
- They dug a new well for the village.
- The well ran dry in summer.
Adinary Nuance
Well is often confused with good. Use well mainly as an adverb: "She sings well." Use good mainly as an adjective: "She is a good singer." In speech, well can also mean healthy, but it sounds more formal than fine or okay.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tốt
- Spanish
- bien
- Chinese
- 好
- Japanese
- よく
- Korean
- 잘
Etymology
Old English wel, meaning 'in a good way' or 'good'. The noun sense comes from Old English wella, from the idea of a spring or flowing source.
Common phrases
as well asall is wellwell donewell paid
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is "well" formal or informal?
- It is neutral and common in both speech and writing.
- What is the difference between "well" and "good"?
- Use "well" for actions and "good" for people or things.
- Can I say "I am good" or "I am well"?
- Both are used. "I am well" is more about health.
- Is "well" used in academic writing?
- Yes, especially in phrases like "well known" and "well established".