well-intentioned

adjective

well-in·​ten·​tioned ˌwel-in-ˈten(t)-shənd How to pronounce well-intentioned (audio)

Examples of well-intentioned in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With a beautifully labyrinthian plot, Alma and Mina’s story is a modern fable about good samaritans and well-intentioned, moneyed, privileged people. Manuel Betancourt, Variety, 28 Mar. 2025 Though the initial question seems well-intentioned, the quick pivot suggests the asker is less interested in the other person's life and more eager to talk about their own. Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Mar. 2025 Without that strategic mindset, DEI risks becoming performative and, while well-intentioned, is ultimately disconnected from real impact. Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025 With the publication of Wolf Hall in 2009, Mantel turned this perception of Cromwell on its head, reinventing the polarizing politician as a fiercely loyal, intelligent and well-intentioned family man. Meilan Solly, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for well-intentioned

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of well-intentioned was in 1598

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Cite this Entry

“Well-intentioned.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/well-intentioned. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

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