good books: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘good books’ mean?
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.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "king's cushion" refers to a position of power or privilege. It implies being in a comfortable and influential role that is highly regarded and protected. This idiom is often used to describe someone who has a coveted or enviable position in society.
The idiom "keys to the kingdom" means having access to the most important or valuable things, often referring to having complete control or authority over a situation, organization, or valuable information.
The idiom "keys to the kingdom" is often used to refer to a situation where one is granted access or control over something significant or valuable. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to biblical references, where keys symbolize authority and control.
The idiom "in the books" refers to something that has been officially recorded or completed. It can imply that an action has been completed according to regulations or plans.
The idiom "in someone's pocket" means to be under someone's control or influence.
The idiom "in safe hands" means that someone or something is being taken care of or protected by a trustworthy and capable individual or group.
The idiom "high ground" refers to a position of advantage or superiority in a conflict or competition, both literally and figuratively. It suggests being in a better position, having more power or control, or having more favorable circumstances than others.
The idiom "good value" refers to something that is worth the money spent on it, providing a high quality or benefit relative to its cost.
The idiom "good old boy" refers to a person, typically a man, who is seen as trustworthy, loyal, and part of a close-knit community or group. It often implies that this person follows traditional values and has influence or connections within that community.
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.
Deciphering the Essence
The idiom "good graces" is related to the concept of being in someone's good books. It signifies being in the favor or good graces of another individual or group. When someone is in someone's good graces, it means that they have earned their approval, respect, or favor. This positive status puts the person in a favorable position, as they have successfully established a strong rapport or relationship with the other party. Hence, being in someone's good graces is often desired, as it signifies a positive and beneficial connection.
When someone has "friends in high places," it means that they have influential or powerful connections. This idiom is related to being in someone's good books because having friends in high places can facilitate being in the favor of important individuals or groups. These influential connections can help open doors, create opportunities, or provide support in various situations. Having friends in high places can give someone an advantage and put them in a favorable position, similar to being in someone's good graces. It is often seen as advantageous to have friends in high places as it can lead to greater opportunities and benefits.
Another related idiom is "blue-eyed," which means being favored or preferred by someone. This idiom is connected to being in someone's good books because being blue-eyed often implies having a special status or receiving preferential treatment from an individual or group. When someone is considered blue-eyed, it suggests that they are highly regarded or favored above others. This idiom highlights the positive association with being in the good books of someone by suggesting that the person is held in high regard and treated with favoritism.
The idiom "in the books" is associated with good books in the sense that it refers to something being officially recorded or documented. When something is in the books, it means that it is documented in an account, record, or official document. This usage is connected to balancing one's books, which relates to managing finances responsibly and accurately. When one's financial transactions and accounts are in order, it means that they have correctly documented and recorded their financial activities. Hence, being in the books implies good financial management and organization, similar to being in good books, which relates to favorable positions and situations.
The final related idiom is "good life," which refers to a comfortable, enjoyable, and fulfilling existence. This idiom is connected to good books because being in someone's good books can often lead to a good life. When someone is in another person's favor or good graces, it can open doors to opportunities, support, and positive experiences. Being in someone's good books can lead to a network of connections, resources, and assistance that contribute to a good life. Whether it is in personal relationships or professional contexts, being in someone's good books can enhance one's quality of life and overall well-being.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom good books can be used in a sentence:
- I have several good books that I would recommend for your summer reading.
- She always keeps her financial records in good books to stay organized.
- The ongoing investigation put the suspect in the good books of the police.
More "Books" idioms
