‘Good’ vs. ‘Well’: When to use which

Even though the words “good” and “well” have similar positive meanings, they cannot be used interchangeably. If you want to write like a pro, it’s essential that you master when to use the words “good” and “well.”

When to use the word “well”

The word “well” is an adverb, so it is used to modify verbs—in many cases, you’ll see “well” directly after a verb. As a reminder, a verb is an action.

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However, the word “well” is used as an adjective when discussing health.

Using well correctly in a sentence

Here are some examples of the word “well” being used correctly in a sentence:

• I did well on the test.

In the sentence above, “well” modifies the verb “did.”

• The team works well under pressure.

In the example above, “well” modifies the verb “works.”

• I didn’t sleep very well last night.

In the example above, “well” modifies the verb “slept.”

• The team played well in the final quarter.

In the example above, the verb “played” is modified by the adverb “well.”

When to use the word “good”

The word “good,” for our purposes, is an adjective that modifies a noun. As a reminder, a noun refers to a person, place, or thing.

The word “good” may also sometimes be used with linking verbs. Linking verbs are verbs that don’t necessarily express an action but instead connect the sentence’s subject with an adjective or noun. “Good” is used with linking verbs such as “looks,” “sounds,” “seems,” and “smells”—so be on the lookout for these! The linking verb “feel” can also be used with “good” in a sentence, but only if it refers to emotions or one’s state of mind.

Using “good” correctly in a sentence

Here are some examples of the adjective “good” being used correctly in a sentence:

• If you do a good job, you’ll get a promotion.

In the above example, the word “job” is a noun, and “good” modifies that noun.

• The pasta they made last night was so good!

In this example, “good” modifies the noun “pasta.”

• The new Thai restaurant that opened looks good.

In this case, “good” is used since “looks” is a linking verb.

• The perfume my husband bought me smells good.

Again, “good” is used in this case because of the linking verb “smells.”

• Sarah is finally starting to feel good after the breakup.

In the instance above, the verb “feel” refers to Sarah’s emotions, so “good” is used here instead of “well.”

How to remember the difference between “good” and “well”

Here are some tips to help you remember when to use “good” and when to use “well” in a sentence:

• “Well” is generally used with verbs or actions.
• “Good” is generally used with nouns.
• When speaking or writing about someone’s health, use the word “well.” For example: He said he wasn’t feeling well, so he went to the nurse’s office.
• When speaking or writing about an event or action, use the word “well.” For example: The bachelorette party went well.
• When speaking or writing about feelings, use the word “good.” For example: She is feeling good about the new job.
• When speaking or writing about an idea, thing, person, or place, use the word “good.” For example: All the students had a good time on the field trip.

Tips to improve your grammar

If you’re still feeling stuck on when to use “good” versus “well,” consider using a writing assistant like Microsoft Editor. Writing assistants like Editor can be downloaded for free as an extension to your browser and will notify you of any spelling or grammar issues across email, social media, documents, and more. Spelling assistants are an extremely valuable tool and are essential if you want to improve your writing.

Now that you understand when to use good and when to use well, you can write effectively and with confidence. If you want to continue honing in on your writing skills, check out these writing essentials.