well-meaning
adjective
well-mean·ing
ˈwel-ˈmē-niŋ 
1
: having good intentions
well-meaning but misguided idealists
2
: based on good intentions
well-meaning advice
Examples of well-meaning in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
She can usually be seen in family settings, catching her siblings off-guard with well-meaning but surprisingly insightful questions about their love lives, and bringing an endearing innocence to the show.
—
Arushi Jacob, Variety, 31 Jan. 2026
Together, these provisions — while well-meaning and politically popular in many cases — create limitations that make budgeting a challenge in California.
—Lanhee J. Chen, Mercury News, 31 Jan. 2026
Pay attention, however, and the connection between Mary and Boo becomes more tender as their dilemma deepens, as does the relationship between Mary and her well-meaning, if totally embarrassing, mom.
—Katie Rife, IndieWire, 24 Jan. 2026
While well-meaning, this approach often achieves the opposite effect.
—Abdo Riani, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
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Arushi Jacob, Variety, 31 Jan. 2026
Together, these provisions — while well-meaning and politically popular in many cases — create limitations that make budgeting a challenge in California.
—Lanhee J. Chen, Mercury News, 31 Jan. 2026
Pay attention, however, and the connection between Mary and Boo becomes more tender as their dilemma deepens, as does the relationship between Mary and her well-meaning, if totally embarrassing, mom.
—Katie Rife, IndieWire, 24 Jan. 2026
While well-meaning, this approach often achieves the opposite effect.
—Abdo Riani, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for well-meaning
Cite this Entry
“Well-meaning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/well-meaning. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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