Comments on: good/well

By: Joshua

Joshua — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 21:10:23 +0000

On the contrary, grammatical pedantry gives me almost indescribable pleasure. By the way, it’s ‘inane’, with one ‘n’.

By: Molly

Molly — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 22:45:51 +0000

So since it was used in the 1300s, it must be correct? When has “good” ever been an adverb?

By: arparp

arparp — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 07:44:30 +0000

Good can be used as an adverb and the OED has cites of such going back to the 1300s. You’re a failure.

By: counterbeer

counterbeer — Thu, 26 May 2011 14:44:07 +0000

Thank you very much for this explanation, Rachel…
Now it’s fully understood, you made my day

By: Rachel V.

Rachel V. — Thu, 26 May 2011 13:49:28 +0000

I’m glad you found the explanation helpful!

When saying “Be good,” it’s usually a statement about behavior, not feelings or health. You’re admonishing someone to behave, not instructing them to stay healthy (“be well”). “Be good” is the same as saying, “Don’t be bad.”

Does that clarify?

By: counterbeer

counterbeer — Wed, 25 May 2011 16:35:42 +0000

A very good and comprehensive description of the use of good and well, thank you very much…
But I’m still not sure whether I can apply:
“Be good.”
or has it to be
“Be well.”
instead?

Thanks a load!

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 04:14:38 +0000

This innane and supercilious discussion on a single grammatical rule has left me with no doubt that stringent grammarians are among the most pedantic and unhappy of people.

By: Rachel V.

Rachel V. — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 20:28:50 +0000

Good question. If you’re replying with a one-word answer (as many people do), it hardly matters.

“How are you?”

“Good.”

“Well.”

“Fine.”

By: SC

SC — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 02:56:17 +0000

This was very helpful, but I have a question.
When asked “How are you?” does one assume the implication “How are you doing?” or “How are you feeling?”

By: Katrina

Katrina — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 20:44:19 +0000

I am hoping someone can help me out with an argument I’ve been having with a friend. Is saying “I like him pretty well” correct? Can “well” modify “like”?