good sort: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumInformal to semi-formal conversational. More common in spoken English than in formal writing.
Quick answer
What does “good sort” mean?
A good-natured, decent, and reliable person.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A good-natured, decent, and reliable person; someone whose character and behavior are commendable.
A pleasant and trustworthy individual, often implying a down-to-earth, friendly, and dependable nature.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Considerably more common and natural in British, Australian, and New Zealand English. In American English, it is recognized but sounds distinctly British or old-fashioned.
Connotations
In British English: warm, colloquial approval. In American English: may sound quaint or like a direct translation from another language; alternatives like 'good guy', 'solid person', 'stand-up guy' are more typical.
Frequency
High-frequency colloquialism in the UK and Commonwealth. Low-frequency/niche in the US.
Grammar
How to Use “good sort” in a Sentence
[Subject + copula verb] + a good sort.I consider [object pronoun] a good sort.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “good sort” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- (Not applicable as a verb)
American English
- (Not applicable as a verb)
adverb
British English
- (Not applicable as an adverb)
American English
- (Not applicable as an adverb)
adjective
British English
- (Not used as a standalone adjective. Only in the noun phrase 'a good sort')
American English
- (Not used as a standalone adjective. Only in the noun phrase 'a good sort')
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. More likely in informal peer reviews or character references: "He's a good sort, gets on with everyone in the team."
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Primary context. Used to describe friends, colleagues, or acquaintances in casual conversation: "You'll like Sarah, she's a really good sort."
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “good sort”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “good sort”
- Using it in formal writing.
- Using it as an adjective (e.g., "He is very good sort"). It must be preceded by an article: "a good sort".
- Overusing it in American contexts where it sounds unnatural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely. While historically more common for men, it is perfectly applicable to women in modern usage (e.g., 'She's a good sort').
It is a compliment, indicating that someone is decent, reliable, and pleasant. However, in certain ironic or dismissive tones, it could imply someone is unambitious or simple, but this is not the primary meaning.
'Good sort' is more informal and idiomatic, often implying a tested, dependable quality. 'Nice person' is more general and neutral. 'Good sort' has a slightly stronger connotation of integrity and reliability.
You will be understood, but it will sound distinctly British or old-fashioned to American ears. Native American English speakers are more likely to say 'good guy', 'solid person', 'stand-up guy', or 'really nice'.
A good-natured, decent, and reliable person.
Good sort is usually informal to semi-formal conversational. more common in spoken english than in formal writing. in register.
Good sort: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡʊd ˈsɔːt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡʊd ˈsɔːrt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A good sort is hard to find.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine SORTING people into groups. The 'GOOD SORT' is the pile for kind, reliable, and decent people.
Conceptual Metaphor
CHARACTER IS A CATEGORY (a 'sort' of person). MORAL QUALITY IS A PHYSICAL PROPERTY (a 'good' sort).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'good sort' LEAST appropriate?