Cool MateBest wishes vs Good luck with that
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Best wishes
Top 2,000 (common)
Good luck with that
InformalTop 2,000 (common)
Most formal: Best wishes
| Best wishes | Good luck with that | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //bɛst ˈwɪʃɪz//🇺🇸 //bɛst ˈwɪʃɪz// | 🇬🇧 //ɡʊd lʌk wɪð ðæt//🇺🇸 //ɡʊd lʌk wɪð ðæt// |
| Meaning | A way to say good luck or express hope for someone's happiness. | I hope things go well for you. |
| Example | Thank you for your support, and best wishes for your future endeavors. | I heard you're starting a new job. Good luck with that! |
| Register | Neutral | Informal |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| Collocations | send best wishes, best wishes for, give best wishes | wish someone luck, throw someone good luck, send luck |
| Common mistakes | Confusing with 'best wishes to you' which is less common., Using it in overly formal settings where something else is preferred., Not capitalizing the phrase when used at the beginning of a note. | Used inappropriately in serious contexts, Confused with 'best of luck' as a formal phrase, Misused as a direct command. |
| Usage notes | Use 'best wishes' in friendly or formal contexts. It’s appropriate in letters, cards, or when wishing someone well. Avoid in very casual settings. | Used to wish someone success, often sarcastically or lightheartedly. Not appropriate in serious situations. |
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Frequently asked questions: Best wishes vs Good luck with that
What's the difference between Best wishes and Good luck with that?
Best wishes: A way to say good luck or express hope for someone's happiness. Good luck with that: I hope things go well for you.
Which is more formal: Best wishes and Good luck with that?
Best wishes is the most formal of these.
Can you show an example of each?
Best wishes: Thank you for your support, and best wishes for your future endeavors. Good luck with that: I heard you're starting a new job. Good luck with that!
Can I use Best wishes and Good luck with that interchangeably?
Not always. Best wishes and Good luck with that are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.