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Adverbs


9/29/11 (Good/Well)

Here’s a question that’s puzzled me for years. Which is correct: “I feel good” or “I feel well?” I know James Brown’s opinion on the subject, but what about the English teachers of the world? Turns out, both are correct.

Adjectives like ‘good’ and 'bad’ are appropriate when talking about a state of being. (For instance, “I am happy.”) Adverbs, on the other hand, are used to describe an action. (“I speak quickly.”) What, then, comes of 'feel?’ Is it a state of being or not? 

Feel is a bit of a tricky word and can be both. If you are using 'feel’ to describe your emotional state, then it’s like a state of being and you should use an adjective like James Brown. I feel good! If you are using 'feel’ to describe your health, then it’s like an action verb; use 'well.' 

If this is still confusing, consider what your opposite choice would be. 'Good’ goes with 'bad’ and 'well’ goes with 'ill.’

If the whole thing still confuses you, just opt for the third choice: “I feel fine.”





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