cordial
KAWR-juhl
/ˈkɔːdiəl/
Warm and friendly, but polite and controlled; deeply felt.
Indicates a polite, respectful warmth. It is friendly but maintains a professional or dignified boundary, unlike 'convivial' which is boisterous.
The story behind the word. From Medieval Latin 'cordialis' ('of or for the heart'), from Latin 'cor' ('heart'). It originally referred to a medicine or sweet drink that stimulated the heart, which is why warm, friendly behavior is described as coming 'from the heart'.
Word relationships
- polite: Polite refers to following social rules, while cordial adds a layer of genuine warmth and kindness.
- genial: Genial implies a cheerful, easygoing warmth, whereas cordial is slightly more formal and structured.
- hostile: Showing strong dislike, opposition, or unfriendliness.
- frosty: Cold, distant, and distinctly unfriendly in manner.
Commonly confused with
- hearty: Hearty is loud, boisterous, and physically expressive, while cordial is quiet, polite, and refined.
Word family
- cordiality (noun): Warm, polite, and friendly behavior.
- cordially (adverb): In a warm, polite, and friendly manner.
Collocations
- cordial welcome
- cordial relations
- cordial agreement
- remain cordial
Example sentences
- "Despite their intense professional rivalry, the two scientists maintained a cordial relationship and always shook hands." A polite relationship between professional rivals.
- "The host extended a cordial invitation to all the delegates to join him for a reception in the garden." A warm welcome at a formal event.
Memory hook
Think of a 'cordial' drink (like a sweet liqueur) that warms your 'core' (heart) on a cold day. Cordial comes straight from the core (heart).
When not to use
Do not use for extremely intimate, emotional, or wildly energetic friendships; it is too reserved for that.
Fun facts
- In British English, a 'cordial' is also a sweet, concentrated fruit syrup mixed with water to make a drink, directly descending from the old medicinal heart-boosters.
Related words
Explore more words
amicable, genial, affable, companionable, convivial, hospitable
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