well-intentioned

[ wel-in-ten-shuhnd ]

adjective

1. well-meaning.

well-intentioned

adjective

1. having or indicating benevolent intentions, usually with unfortunate results

Word History and Origins

Origin of well-intentioned¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

The movie is also smart enough to recognize that its women aren’t there to save anyone, just to remind these well-intentioned men about getting over themselves.

From Los Angeles Times

But some entrepreneurs also defended the minister, saying that his comments were well-intentioned and a much-needed reality-check for the start-up ecosystem.

From BBC

But she’s also disappointed that her father — a well-intentioned widower still struggling to connect with his daughter — wants in on the financial gain by angling for partner status.

From Los Angeles Times

"Therefore, they will not accept any proposals or solutions, even if seemingly well-intentioned under the guise of reconstruction, as proposed by U.S. President Trump."

From Salon

Like other well-intentioned organizers before them, the crew has come up against the complicated realities of the crowdfunding economy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• agreeable
• benign
• encouraging
• positive
• supportive
• sympathetic