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For Goodness' Sakes

What Does "For Goodness' Sakes" Mean?

home▸idioms▸For Goodness' Sakes
"For goodness' sakes" is an English idiom. It means "another variant of 'for goodness' sake' expressing frustration, surprise, or emphasis."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "for goodness' sakes" used in a sentence:
  • For goodness' sakes, just tell me the truth!
  • Stop goofing around, for goodness' sakes!
  • For goodness' sakes, not this again.
meaning for for goodness' sakes

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "For Goodness' Sakes" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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