cordially

/ˈkɔːrdʒəli/ Formal

Say it: KOR-juh-lee

adverb In a warm, friendly, and polite manner.
Despite their business rivalry, the two CEOs always greeted each other cordially at public events.

📖 Seen in the wild

The host greeted all the guests cordially as they arrived at the party.
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✏️ cordially in a sentence

You are cordially invited to the wedding of our daughter this coming June.
The prime minister was cordially received by the foreign delegation.
Though they disagreed on every major issue, the senators managed to discuss the bill cordially.
He cordially detested early mornings, a fact he made known with a series of loud groans.
The negotiation ended cordially, with both parties agreeing to review the terms and meet again.
Her email closing was a simple but warm, 'Cordially, Dr. Evans'.

🔁 Synonyms & antonyms

warmly genially amicably affably graciously politely sincerely

warmly · suggests more personal affection and less formal politeness.

genially · implies a more cheerful, sociable, and good-natured friendliness.

amicably · focuses on a lack of conflict, often used when an agreement is reached.

affably · highlights an easygoing, pleasant, and approachable manner.

Opposites: coldly, hostilely, rudely, curtly, unfriendly

🌱 Where it comes from

The word 'cordially' flows directly from the heart. It traces back to the Latin word 'cor', meaning 'heart', which gave rise to the adjective 'cordial' for something heartfelt or stimulating. By adding the '-ly' suffix in the 15th century, English speakers created an adverb to describe actions done with sincere, heartfelt warmth.

🧩 How it's used

Common patterns:

cordially invitecordially greetcordially receivedcordially yourscordially dislike

Cordially strikes a balance between formal politeness and genuine warmth. It is most at home in written communication, especially in formal invitations and as a closing for letters or emails ('Cordially,' or 'Cordially yours,'). In this context, it is a step warmer than 'Sincerely' but not as personal as 'Warmly.' Using it in casual speech can sound a bit stiff or old-fashioned.

Word family: cordial, cordiality

💬 Quick answers

What does 'cordially' mean?

It means to do something in a warm, friendly, and sincere way. It implies a heartfelt and gracious politeness.

Is 'cordially' a formal word?

Yes, 'cordially' is generally considered formal. It is most common in written invitations, professional correspondence, and descriptions of polite social interactions.

What's the difference between 'cordially' and 'sincerely'?

'Cordially' emphasizes warmth and friendliness, coming from the Latin word for 'heart'. 'Sincerely' emphasizes genuineness and honesty. In a letter, 'Cordially' is a touch warmer and more formal than 'Sincerely'.

Can you 'cordially' dislike something?

Yes, this is a specific, somewhat literary usage. To 'cordially dislike' or 'cordially hate' something means to do so with great intensity and sincerity, as if from the heart.

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