"Good" is an adjective describing quality, quantity, or extent. This guide lists synonyms, sorted by strength and tone, with examples. It helps you express approval or quality clearly.
Synonyms for Good (Quality or Approval)
"Good" describes something satisfactory, pleasant, or effective. Synonyms range from strong to mild, with examples to guide your choice.
Strongest Matches
These synonyms suggest high quality or strong approval.
| Synonym | Definition | Example with "Good" | Example with Synonym |
| Excellent | Outstandingly good | The meal was good. | The meal was excellent. |
| Superb | Top quality | Her work was good. | Her work was superb. |
| Outstanding | Remarkably good | His idea was good. | His idea was outstanding. |
| Fantastic | Extraordinarily good | The show was good. | The show was fantastic. |
These emphasize excellence. "Excellent" and "superb" are formal, while "outstanding" and "fantastic" feel enthusiastic.
Strong Matches
These synonyms indicate solid quality, less intense than the strongest.
| Synonym | Definition | Example with "Good" | Example with Synonym |
| Great | Above average | The book was good. | The book was great. |
| Fine | High quality | The wine was good. | The wine was fine. |
| Wonderful | Highly pleasing | The day was good. | The day was wonderful. |
| Splendid | Impressive | The effort was good. | The effort was splendid. |
These are warm and versatile. "Great" and "wonderful" are lively, while "fine" and "splendid" are refined.
Weaker Matches
These synonyms suggest satisfactory or mild quality.
| Synonym | Definition | Example with "Good" | Example with Synonym |
| Nice | Pleasing | The view was good. | The view was nice. |
| Decent | Acceptable | The result was good. | The result was decent. |
| Okay | Satisfactory | The plan was good. | The plan was okay. |
These are casual. "Nice" is warm, "decent" is neutral, and "okay" is minimal.
Less Common Synonyms
These rare synonyms add variety, often for specific contexts.
- Commendable: Worthy of praise (formal).
Example: Her effort was good. → Her effort was commendable. - Bully: Very good, old-fashioned (dated).
Example: The idea was good. → The idea was bully.
These are unique. "Commendable" suits formal praise, while "bully" has a playful, vintage feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use “good” instead of great?
"Good" is versatile and moderate, while "great" suggests higher quality. Use "good" for satisfactory things and "great" for impressive ones, like “a great book.”
Can “good” apply to abstract concepts?
Yes, "good" works for ideas or feelings, like “good intentions.” Synonyms like "excellent" or "commendable" add precision to abstract descriptions.
What’s a strong synonym for workplace praise?
"Outstanding" or "superb" are perfect for professional settings. They convey high quality and make your feedback sound polished and sincere.
When is okay a better choice than “good”?
Use "okay" for minimal approval, like “The plan is okay.” It’s less enthusiastic than "good," fitting when you’re neutral or reserved.
How do synonyms for “good” enhance creative writing?
Words like "fantastic" or "splendid" add color and emotion. They help you paint vivid pictures, making your stories more engaging and expressive.
Conclusion
Synonyms for "good" help you describe quality or approval with precision. Choose based on tone for clear expression. This guide supports vibrant and effective communication.