do well by doing good: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘do well by doing good’ mean?
The idiom do well by doing good means that when someone is morally upright and acts in a positive and beneficial way towards others, they often experience success and prosperity in their personal life or career as a result. It implies that being ethical and kind can lead to positive outcomes and rewards.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "in the money" means to be in a financially successful or prosperous situation.
The idiom "hard done by" refers to feeling unfairly treated or disadvantaged in a situation. It implies a sense of experiencing hardship or being poorly treated in comparison to others.
The idiom "hard done by" is a commonly used expression in English to describe someone who has been treated unfairly or has experienced hardship or adversity. It originated in the UK or possibly Australia in the mid-19th century. The exact origin of the idiom, however, remains uncertain.
The idiom "good turn" refers to a helpful or kind action done for someone else with the intent of benefitting them. It emphasizes the idea of doing something good or kind without expecting anything in return.
The idiom "good run" means a period of success or achievement in a particular activity or endeavor.
In the realm of idioms, the phrase "good run" holds a unique place. Derived from the sports domain, this idiom has a rich history intertwined with the achievements and endurance associated with running.
The idiom "good life" refers to a state of living that is comfortable, enjoyable, and fulfilling. It implies a life filled with happiness, success, and contentment.
The idiom "good job" is used to express approval or praise for someone's work or accomplishment.
Good job is an idiom that is commonly used in American English. It is a phrase that is often used to express approval or praise for someone's performance or accomplishment. The idiom is composed of two simple words, "good" and "job," but when used together, they take on a unique meaning that is not easily inferred from the individual words.
The idiom "good graces" means being in someone's favor or approval. It implies having positive regard or being on good terms with someone.
Good graces is an idiomatic expression that has become a common phrase used in everyday conversation. It is used to describe a favorable opinion or regard that someone has of another person. Being in someone's good graces means that you are in their favor and they hold a positive opinion of you.
The idiom "good books" refers to being in a position of favor or under the protection of someone influential or powerful. It implies that the person is in a positive and secure state, likely due to their relationship with someone important.
Success through Benevolence
The idiom "do well for oneself" is closely related to the concept of "do well by doing good." When we strive to do good, whether through acts of kindness, philanthropy, or ethical behavior, we ultimately benefit ourselves. By committing to virtuous actions, we can experience personal growth and fulfillment, leading to a more prosperous and meaningful life.
Similarly, the idiom "do right by" reinforces the idea that doing good is not only about personal gain but also about treating others with fairness and respect. When we do right by others, we foster healthy relationships and build trust. This can have a positive impact on both our personal and professional lives, creating a strong foundation for success.
The idiom "do the decent thing" aligns perfectly with the concept of doing good. It emphasizes the importance of choosing moral and ethical actions over self-interest. When faced with a decision, we should strive to choose the path that aligns with our values and contributes to the greater good. By doing the decent thing, we not only uphold our own integrity but also inspire others to do the same.
When we engage in acts of kindness and pursue virtuous actions, we often find ourselves better for it. The idiom "better for it" implies that by doing good, we gain personal benefits and become stronger individuals. Whether it be through personal growth, improved relationships, or increased self-confidence, our efforts to do well by doing good have a positive impact on our overall well-being.
The idiom "do someone proud" relates to the idea of doing well by doing good in the sense that our virtuous actions can bring pride and happiness to others. When we make choices that align with our values and contribute to the greater good, we not only improve ourselves but also inspire and uplift those around us. Our loved ones and communities can take pride in our actions, knowing that we are making a positive difference in the world.
"do well by doing good" is a powerful idiom that encapsulates the idea that individuals and businesses can achieve success and prosperity by aligning their actions with moral and ethical values. It emphasizes the potential for personal growth, improved relationships, and societal impact. By striving to do what is right, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to a better world. Let us remember the power of this idiom and actively work towards creating a positive and meaningful impact in our lives and the lives of others.
Example usage
- Example 1: When a company implements environmentally friendly practices, they not only contribute to the betterment of the planet but also attract a larger customer base. By doing well by doing good, they increase their profits while also benefiting the environment.
- Example 2: An individual who volunteers their time and skills to help a non-profit organization is both doing good for the community and enhancing their own personal growth. They may gain new experiences, develop new skills, and make valuable connections, which can lead to career advancement. In this way, they do well by doing good.
- Example 3: A celebrity who uses their fame and platform to raise awareness for important social issues not only contributes to positive change but also improves their public image and appeal. By aligning their actions with their values, they do well by doing good and may gain a stronger fanbase or endorsements as a result.
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