Writer Tools · adjective

Words Instead of good

"Good" is the most over-extended adjective in English. Every use of "good" is a missed opportunity to tell the reader exactly what kind of good it is.

Writing tip

Ask what makes it good: quality → sterling, superb; morality → virtuous, upright; effectiveness → capable, adept; pleasantness → delightful, agreeable.

12 Alternatives to “good

1
excellent

extremely good; of the highest quality

2
exemplary

serving as a perfect example; outstanding

3
sterling
Literary

of the very highest quality; thoroughly excellent

4
admirable

deserving respect and approval

5
commendable

deserving praise; praiseworthy

6
superb

impressively excellent; magnificent

7
capable

competent; having the ability to perform well

8
virtuous

having good moral qualities; righteous

9
wholesome

beneficial to mind or character; sound and healthy

10
proficient

skilled and competent at something

11
laudable
Formal

deserving praise; praiseworthy

12
agreeable

pleasant; willing to agree or consent

Register guide

Literary
elevated, prose-friendly
Formal
professional, non-fiction
Casual
dialogue, informal writing
Archaic
historical fiction, worldbuilding

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