for goodness’ sakes: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘for goodness' sakes’ mean?
The idiom "for goodness' sakes" is used to express frustration, annoyance, or exasperation. It is often added to a statement or command to emphasize the speaker's strong feelings about a situation.
Idiom Explorer
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Ancestral Power Insights
The idiom "for goodness' sake" is a widely used expression in the English language. It is used to express frustration, annoyance, or exasperation in a polite manner. The phrase is often used as an interjection or exclamation to convey a sense of bewilderment or disbelief in a given situation. The word "goodness" in the idiom refers to moral excellence or virtue, and is used as a substitute for a stronger and potentially offensive word. The possessive form, "for goodness' sake," adds emphasis and conveys a sense of exasperation or urgency.
The exact origins of the idiom "for goodness' sake" are uncertain, but it can be traced back to the 17th century. Similar phrases expressing frustration or irritation can be found in literature and religious texts from that time. The idiom has since become a common and widely understood expression in the English language, used in everyday conversations, formal and informal writing, and in various forms of media.
Another related idiom is "for heaven's sake." It serves the same purpose as "for goodness' sake" and is used to convey frustration or emphasis. The substitution of "heaven" instead of "goodness" adds a religious connotation to the expression. Both idioms are widely used and understood, but their meaning and impact may vary depending on the context and tone of the conversation.
The idiom "for goodness' sake" is often used in situations where the speaker wants to emphasize their frustration or exasperation without using stronger language. It is a polite way to express annoyance or disbelief. The phrase can be used in both spoken and written English, and its usage is prevalent across different regions and social groups.
Generally, when someone says "for goodness' sake," they are pleading for understanding or expressing their exasperation. The phrase can be interpreted as a request for patience or as a way to vent frustration. Its widespread usage and historical presence in the English language highlight its significance and enduring relevance in contemporary communication.
The idiom "for goodness' sake" is a commonly used expression that conveys frustration or exasperation in a polite manner. Its origins date back to the 17th century, and it has since become a prevalent and widely understood phrase in the English language. The related idiom "for heaven's sake" serves a similar purpose but adds a religious connotation. By using these idioms, speakers can express their frustration or emphasize a point without resorting to stronger language.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *for goodness' sakes* can be used in a sentence:
- For goodness' sakes, please close the door before the air conditioning escapes!
- Why did you forget your umbrella, for goodness' sakes?
- Can you please stop arguing, for goodness' sakes?
An analysis of the idiom "for goodness' sakes" suggests that it is typically used to express frustration, impatience, or exasperation. The speaker may be emphasizing the urgency or importance of a situation and is urging someone to take action. Additionally, this idiom can convey a sense of disbelief or astonishment at someone's behavior or choices, often indicating that the speaker cannot understand the reason behind it. The phrase "for goodness' sakes" is informal and slightly old-fashioned, adding a touch of emphasis and emotion to the sentence.
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