# cordially

/ˈkɔɹdʒəɫi/ (US) · /kˈɔːdɪəli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cordially
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

in a warm and friendly way that shows you like or respect someone. You use it when you greet, invite, or thank people politely.

For teachers: in a warm, friendly and polite way that expresses sincere goodwill. Common in formal invitations, greetings and polite correspondence.

## Examples

- She greets every guest cordially at the door.
- The manager cordially welcomes new staff on their first day and shows them around the office.
- Though they had disagreed for years, the two leaders shook hands cordially for the cameras, masking deeper tensions with practised politeness.

## Synonyms

warmly

## Antonyms

coldly, rudely

## Usage notes

- Manner adverb — typically placed after the verb or at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.