Good Meaning and Definition
Good
Pronunciation
/ɡʊd/
Part of Speech
Adjective, Noun
Definition
Something that is morally excellent, virtuous, or commendable. It can also refer to a state of being satisfactory, acceptable, or pleasing.
Examples
1. “She is a good person, always willing to help others.”
2. “The movie was good, but the ending was a bit disappointing.”
Synonyms
1. Excellent
2. Virtuous
3. Commendable
Antonyms
1. Bad
2. Evil
3. Wicked
Additional Information
The concept of good has been debated by philosophers and scholars for centuries. In ethics, good is often considered a fundamental value that guides human behavior and decision-making. In everyday life, people strive to do good, whether it’s helping others, making amends for past mistakes, or simply being a good friend or family member. Good can also refer to something that is pleasant, enjoyable, or satisfying, such as a good meal or a good book. Overall, the concept of good is complex and multifaceted, encompassing both moral and non-moral aspects.
In modern times, the idea of good has been explored in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and economics. For instance, the concept of “doing good” has become increasingly popular in the context of corporate social responsibility, where companies aim to make a positive impact on society and the environment. Furthermore, the notion of good has been examined in the context of artificial intelligence, where machines are being designed to make decisions that align with human values and ethics.
Good is also an essential concept in many religious and philosophical traditions. For example, in Christianity, the idea of good is closely tied to the concept of love and compassion. In Buddhism, the goal of achieving good karma is a central aspect of spiritual practice. In Islam, the concept of good is often associated with the idea of doing good deeds and living a virtuous life.
Etymology
The word “good” comes from Old English “gōd”, which was derived from Proto-Germanic “*gudiz”. The word has been used in English since the 5th century and has undergone various changes in meaning and usage over time.
Usage Notes
The word “good” can be used as an adjective, noun, or adverb. As an adjective, it describes something that is morally excellent or satisfactory. As a noun, it refers to something that is morally good or commendable. As an adverb, it indicates a degree or extent, such as “good enough” or “good for nothing”.
Cultural References
The concept of good has been referenced in numerous cultural works, including literature, music, and film. For example, in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”, the protagonist’s famous soliloquy “To be or not to be” explores the idea of what is good and what is not. In music, the phrase “good vibes” is often used to describe a positive atmosphere or mood.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “good” include “good to go”, “good luck”, and “good for nothing”.
Collocations
Some common word combinations with the term “good” include “good deed”, “good friend”, and “good times”.
Frequency of Use
The word “good” is one of the most frequently used words in the English language, according to the Corpus of Contemporary American English. It is commonly used in everyday conversation, writing, and media.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “good” include “god”, “goo”, and “gud”.