CORDIAL Synonyms: 217 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'cordial' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of cordial are affable , genial , gracious , and sociable . While all these words mean "markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse," cordial stresses warmth and heartiness. // our host was cordial as he greeted us

Q: When could 'affable' be used to replace 'cordial'?

The synonyms affable and cordial are sometimes interchangeable, but affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals. // though wealthy, she was affable to all

Q: When is 'genial' a more appropriate choice than 'cordial'?

In some situations, the words genial and cordial are roughly equivalent. However, genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality. // a genial companion with a ready quip

Q: In what contexts can 'gracious' take the place of 'cordial'?

The words gracious and cordial can be used in similar contexts, but gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration. // the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues

Q: When is it sensible to use 'sociable' instead of 'cordial'?

While the synonyms sociable and cordial are close in meaning, sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others. // sociable people who enjoy entertaining

cordial 1 of 2

adjective

ˈkȯr-jəl

Definition of cordial

as in warm

having or showing kindly feeling and sincere interest a cordial inquiry about her mother's health

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in gracious

showing a natural kindness and courtesy especially in social situations a cordial hostess who makes sure everyone is comfortable

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in refreshing

having a renewing effect on the state of the body or mind he insisted that a cordial nip of brandy would be just the thing for someone suffering from shock

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

cordial

2 of 2

noun

as in tonic

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word cordial different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of cordial are affable, genial, gracious, and sociable. While all these words mean "markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse," cordial stresses warmth and heartiness.

our host was cordial as he greeted us

When could affable be used to replace cordial?

The synonyms affable and cordial are sometimes interchangeable, but affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals.

though wealthy, she was affable to all

When is genial a more appropriate choice than cordial?

In some situations, the words genial and cordial are roughly equivalent. However, genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality.

a genial companion with a ready quip

In what contexts can gracious take the place of cordial?

The words gracious and cordial can be used in similar contexts, but gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration.

the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues

When is it sensible to use sociable instead of cordial?

While the synonyms sociable and cordial are close in meaning, sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others.

sociable people who enjoy entertaining

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of cordial

Adjective

The atmosphere was cordial as the Chesterton Advisory Plan Commission got its first look Thursday at a proposal for a housing subdivision on the 163-acre Brassie Golf Club property. —Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 22 Mar. 2025 Since their separation, Vanessa and Trump Jr. have maintained a cordial relationship, with both prioritizing co-parenting their five children. —Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

Noun

This year, skip the small-batch scotch or whisky; something feels right, right now, about cordials and liqueurs—high-alcohol spirits that are sweetened with fruit, and sometimes splashed with vinegar or spice. —Helen Rosner, The New Yorker, 24 Nov. 2024 Tucked away on a quiet street just around the corner from the bubbly bistros, highlights include guest rooms with private terraces featuring views of Saint Sulpice Church and the fireplace studded living room and library lounge where a classic Parisian breakfast, wine, and cordials are included. —Elycia Rubin, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for cordial

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cordial

Adjective

However, evidence increasingly suggests that early in its life, Mars was a warm and wet planet much like our own.

— Jonathan O’Callaghan, JSTOR Daily, 10 Apr. 2025
Deals on seating Deals on outdoor rugs Deals on pools and hot tubs Deals on fire pits Deals on storage Deals lights and umbrella Deals on seating Seating areas can create a focal point in your garden decor and are a great place to relax in warmer weather.

— Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 10 Apr. 2025