English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Goody two shoes
Meaning
The idiom "goody two shoes" refers to someone who is excessively good, obedient, or morally upright. This person often follows rules and social norms strictly, without any deviation or question. The phrase has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that the person may be too eager to please others or to do what is expected of them.
Usage
- I was surprised when my friend suggested we go out for a late-night snack, knowing how much she tries to follow her dietary rules. She's such a goodie two shoes!
- My son always does his homework without complaint or hesitation. He's a real goody two shoes!
- When my colleague was reprimanded for not meeting the deadline, he immediately apologized and promised to do better next time. He really is a goodie two shoes.
- The new employee always arrives on time and dresses professionally. She's such a goodie two shoes! It's like she's trying too hard to impress her boss.
- My brother always does his chores without any argument or resistance from his parents. He's a real goodie two shoes!
Roots and History
The idiom "goody two shoes" has been in use since the 16th century, according to the Oxford English Dictionary. The phrase comes from the idea of someone who is so good that they seem to have two pairs of shoes - one to wear in their everyday life, and another to wear for special occasions or when they need extra credit. The phrase has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that the person may be too eager to please others or to do what is expected of them.
Synonyms in English
- Angelic
- Innocent
- Saintly
- Upright
- Righteous
Synonyms in other languages
- In French, the phrase "la pucelle" (the virgin) has a similar meaning of being excessively pure or innocent.
- In German, the phrase "der heilige Abt" (the holy abbot) refers to someone who is overly obedient and follows rules without question.
- In Spanish, the phrase "el santo" (the saint) has a similar meaning of being excessively good or moral.
- In Italian, the phrase "la giovinetta" (the young girl) refers to someone who is innocent and pure, often used to describe a young woman who has not yet lost her virginity.
- In Japanese, the phrase "shi no ko" (a saint's child) refers to someone who is excessively good or obedient, often used to describe a child who always does what they are told without question.