good graces: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘good graces’ mean?

The idiom "good graces" means being in someone's favor or approval. It implies having positive regard or being on good terms with someone.

Idiom Explorer

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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 origin of this idiom can be linked to the idea of grace as a virtue or quality possessed by a person. In religious contexts, grace is often associated with divine favor or mercy. The concept of being in someone's good graces can be seen as a metaphorical extension of this idea, where it refers to being favored or shown kindness by another individual.

The phrase is commonly used in a social or interpersonal context, often referring to someone who has gained the favor or approval of another person. It implies that the person in question has done something to earn the positive regard of someone else. It suggests that the person is in a favorable position and is more likely to be treated kindly or given preferential treatment.

She was in his good graces after doing him a favor.

Being in someone's good graces can have various benefits. It can lead to opportunities, favors, or advantageous treatment in different situations. It can also contribute to the development of positive relationships and interactions with others. On the other hand, falling out of someone's good graces can have negative consequences, such as being ostracized or facing difficulties in certain contexts.

This idiom is commonly used in both formal and informal settings. It can be found in literature, speeches, and everyday conversations. Its widespread usage indicates its relevance and importance in human communication. The phrase has become ingrained in the English language and continues to be used as a way to describe social dynamics and relationships.

When someone is in someone's good graces, it means they have earned their approval, trust, and favor. This expression is often used interchangeably with the idiom "in someone's good books." When you are in someone's good books, it means that you have earned their favor and they hold a positive opinion of you. It is similar to being in someone's good graces, describing a state where you are in their favor and they hold a positive opinion of you.

Similarly, a related idiom is "doing someone a good turn." When you do someone a good turn, it means you perform a helpful or kind act for them. This action can earn you their gratitude and put you in their good graces. By doing someone a good turn, you are helping them in some way and showing them kindness. This can lead to you being seen favorably and being in their good graces.

Being in someone's good graces is a common idiom used to describe a favorable opinion or regard that someone has of another person. It signifies that you are in their favor and they hold a positive opinion of you. This expression is often used interchangeably with the idiom "in someone's good books," which also describes earning someone's favor and positive opinion. Additionally, "doing someone a good turn" is another related idiom, where performing a helpful or kind act for someone can earn you their gratitude and put you in their good graces.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "good graces" is used in a sentence:

  1. He wanted to stay in the boss's good graces, so he always completed his work on time and went above and beyond to impress him.
  2. After forgetting her friend's birthday two years in a row, she finally managed to get back in her good graces by throwing her a surprise party.
  3. In order to secure the support of the influential committee members, the politician worked tirelessly to stay in their good graces.

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