The Archive

Etymology Journal · G

Good for you!

Meaning

A way to express genuine approval or congratulations for someone's achievement or decision. When said with a flat tone, it can sometimes be perceived as passive-aggressive, but is usually meant sincerely.

Approving, supportive

Used in a sentence

  • You finally quit that stressful job? Good for you!
  • I started running three miles a day. Good for you, that takes dedication.
  • Good for you for standing up for yourself in that meeting.

The backstory

This is a common English idiomatic expression of encouragement. It evolved as a shorthand for saying it is good that this happened for you.

Heard in

Nationwide

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