good sense
Filed under G
In a sentence
- She showed good sense by investing her money wisely.
- It would be a good idea to listen to her; she has good sense.
- He had the good sense to ask for help when he realized he was in over his head.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "good sense" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It refers to having sound judgment, wisdom, or a practical understanding of things. This idiomatic expression is formed by combining the adjective "good" with the noun "sense," resulting in a phrase that implies the possession of rational and logical thinking.
The origins of the idiom "good sense" can be traced back to the Old English period. The adjective "good" has been used since the 9th century to indicate moral excellence, suitability, or proficiency. The noun "sense," on the other hand, has been in use since the 14th century to refer to the faculty of perception, understanding, or judgment.
When used in a literal sense, "good sense" can be understood as having the ability to perceive or comprehend information accurately. However, in its idiomatic form, the phrase carries a metaphorical meaning that extends beyond literal comprehension. It implies the possession of wisdom, practicality, and the ability to make rational decisions.
The idiom "good sense" is often used in various contexts to describe individuals who display logical thinking, prudence, or a level-headed approach to situations. It is frequently employed to emphasize the importance of making wise choices or decisions based on careful consideration of the available facts and circumstances.
While the idiom "good sense" may seem straightforward in meaning, its application can vary based on the specific context and individual interpretation. The phrase is often used in combination with other words or expressions to reinforce its intended message. For example, phrases like "exercise good sense," "have the good sense to," or "in good sense" are commonly employed to highlight the importance of sound judgment in specific situations or scenarios.
The idiom "gut factor" is also connected to "good sense." It refers to relying on one's instincts or intuition to make decisions. While good sense involves logical reasoning and rationality, the gut factor emphasizes the importance of trusting one's inner feelings and instincts. Good sense, combined with the gut factor, can result in well-rounded decision-making that considers both logical analysis and intuitive understanding.
Neighbouring idioms
- make sense
- good head on one's shouldersEmotions & feelings
- gut factor
- come to one's senses
- in one's right mindEmotions & feelings
- gut feeling
- good valueMoney & work
- have one's wits about one
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.