godspeed: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal, literary, or archaic; occasionally used in modern contexts for heightened effect.
Quick answer
What does “godspeed” mean?
An expression wishing someone success and safety on a journey or undertaking.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An expression wishing someone success and safety on a journey or undertaking.
A heartfelt wish for favorable circumstances, protection, and swift progress in a significant endeavor, often carrying a formal, solemn, or archaic tone.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major differences in meaning or usage; slightly more likely to appear in historical or literary contexts in both varieties.
Connotations
Conveys a sense of solemnity, earnest goodwill, and sometimes a touch of antiquity. Can sound formal or poetic.
Frequency
Low frequency in everyday speech in both regions. More common in written narratives, ceremonial contexts, or period dialogue.
Grammar
How to Use “godspeed” in a Sentence
[Subject] bid/wished [Indirect Object] godspeed (on [Object of journey/endeavor]).Interjection: Godspeed!Noun: He gave them his godspeed.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Very rare. Might be used humorously or solemnly for a colleague departing on a long-term, high-stakes assignment.
Academic
Rare, except in historical/literary analysis of texts where the term appears.
Everyday
Very rare in casual conversation. Might be used self-consciously for dramatic effect.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “godspeed”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “godspeed”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “godspeed”
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I godspeed you').
- Using it to mean 'go fast' (e.g., 'We must godspeed to the station').
- Spelling as two separate words ('god speed') in modern standard usage.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In modern English, it is standardly written as one word: 'godspeed.' The historical form was often two words ('God speed you').
It would be highly unusual and potentially seen as odd or overly dramatic. 'Best of luck' or 'All the best' are far more standard.
'Goodbye' (from 'God be with you') is a general parting word. 'Godspeed' specifically adds the wish for success and safety on the journey or endeavor that follows the parting.
Its etymology is explicitly religious ('God speed you'), but in modern secular usage, it is often perceived more as a formal, poetic archaism than an active religious invocation, though the connotation remains.
An expression wishing someone success and safety on a journey or undertaking.
Godspeed is usually formal, literary, or archaic; occasionally used in modern contexts for heightened effect. in register.
Godspeed: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡɒdˈspiːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡɑːdˈspiːd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"Bid someone godspeed" is itself a fixed, somewhat idiomatic expression.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: "God speed you on your way" -> shortened to 'godspeed.' It's not about divine velocity, but divine assistance for a speedy and safe trip.
Conceptual Metaphor
JOURNEY IS A VENTURE REQUIRING DIVINE FAVOR. The word frames a departure or project as a path where success depends on benevolent external forces.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'godspeed' MOST appropriately used?