for goodness' sake
Filed under F
In a sentence
- For goodness' sake, please close the door behind you.
- Can you please be quiet, for goodness' sake?
- She's been waiting for him all day, for goodness' sake!
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "for goodness' sakes" is another variation of the expression "for goodness' sake." Similar to the original phrase, it is used to express frustration, annoyance, or disbelief. The addition of the letter "s" at the end of "sake" adds emphasis to the exasperation being conveyed. It is often used in situations where someone is trying to convey a sense of urgency or the importance of a request. The phrase is typically used in informal speech and writing and is understood by native speakers across different dialects.
A more forceful variant of the idiom is "for fuck's sake." This expression is considered vulgar and is generally used in more informal or casual settings. It is used to convey a strong sense of frustration, annoyance, or anger. The addition of the word "fuck" adds a stronger emphasis and may be seen as more offensive or inappropriate in certain contexts. It is important to use this variant of the idiom with caution and be aware of the audience and setting in which it is being used.
The idiom "for goodness' sake" and its related variations are used to express frustration, annoyance, or exasperation. Whether it is "for goodness' sakes," "for heaven's sake," "for fuck's sake," or "for pity's sake," each variant conveys a similar meaning with its own unique tone and emphasis. These idioms are commonly used in informal speech and writing and are understood by native English speakers across different dialects. So, for goodness' sake, keep using these idioms to add color and emphasis to your communications!
Neighbouring idioms
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.