Well! A – Some explanatory notes

Well can mean various different things. It can be used:

• for emphasis

I was well aware she had not told me the truth. (very)
The article is well worth reading. (extremely)
Her uncle is well into his eighties (in his late eighties).
He arrived well in advance of the others – a considerable distance before / (or in front of) the others

• when congratulating people

Well said!
Well done!
Well tried!
Well played!

• to mean successfully, or satisfactorily

His exams went really well.

• as an interjection when talking

Perhaps it’s, well, better for me not to see him anymore.

• to indicate surprise

Well!
Well I never! = I am extremely surprised.

• to add probability, especially with may, might, and could

With the rising cost of fuel, people’s use of public transport may well increase.
We may well go to Holland for a few days.
After the latest government campaign about the importance of exercise, people may well start using their local gyms more.

• to convey something in addition (to)

I’ll have some mineral water as well.
As well as being good at sport, she is a gifted dancer, too.

• with a past participle

I received a very well-written reply from my MP this morning.
A well-spoken young man came into the hall and asked to see the manager.
I think your exam result was well-earned / well-deserved.

• to mean ‘healthy’

She looks well.
Both mother and baby are well.
Get well soon!

• to express reluctance, or some unwillingness

Well, alright, I’ll drive for once.