Phrase guide

mean well

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To have good intentions; to do with a noble or positive purpose in mind.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • These programs mean well, but they're just counterproductive.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: mean ill

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

4 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: tarkoittaa hyvää — do with a positive intention
  • French: vouloir bien faire — do with a positive intention
  • Italian: fare a fin di bene — do with a positive intention
  • Polish: chcieć dobrze — do with a positive intention