Well and good

If a job’s well done, can it be good enough?

Everybody is anxious to know about your event last night.

Now, will you say the event went well or the event went good ?

That is worth a thought.

Good , we all know, is an adjective that modifies a noun.

A good movie is enjoyed by all.

Well modifies a verb; an action can be well done . Or, you could do well in your exams.

In other words, when you are pondering whether good or well is better for your response, remember that good modifies a person, place, or thing, whereas well modifies an action.

If you’re reading a good book, then that is time well spent!

So, if someone asks you if you did good in your event, it is incorrect. Good cannot modify the verb did, whereas well , being an adverb, can do that. And if somebody says that’s a well movie, instead of good movie, tell him/her well is not an adjective and the sentence is incorrect.

There’s one exception to this rule, though.

When using linking verbs that describe health such as be, feel or look, use well . For example:

I am not feeling well .

She didn’t look wel l last night and missed work today.

He was not well and left early.

He used to be sick but now he is well .