PhrasesHub

Goody two-shoes

    Definitions

      • to describe someone as overly good or virtuous
        To express annoyance or disdain towards someone who is perceived as being too morally upright or righteous.

      • to describe someone as a show-off or goody-goody
        To mock or tease someone who is perceived as trying too hard to be perfect or well-behaved.

      • to describe someone who has a tendency to follow rules and authority
        To criticize someone who is seen as too obedient or conforming to societal norms and expectations.

    Examples of Goody two-shoes

    • Liz is such a goody two-shoes! She never breaks the rules or does anything wild.

      The idiom "goody two-shoes" refers to a person who is overly obedient and follows the rules strictly. Liz is the epitome of this, as she never breaks the rules or takes any risks. This idiom highlights the idea that such individuals lack personality or boldness, as they don't deviate from the norm.

    • Rachel's boyfriend is a goody two-shoes, so she hopes he'll propose soon and make an honest woman out of her.

      In this example, the idiom "goody two-shoes" is used to describe a person who is perceived as being overly moral and conventional. Rachel's boyfriend fits this description because he seems to be the type of person who follows societal norms without questioning them. By implying that her boyfriend is a goody two-shoes, Rachel suggests that she wants to settle down and become a traditional wife.

    • John's goody two-shoes mentality has held him back from achieving his true potential. He's too afraid to take risks or try new things.

      This example shows that the idiom "goody two-shoes" can also be used negatively to describe a person who is excessively cautious or lacks ambition. In John's case, his adherence to strict rules and conventions has prevented him from realizing his full potential. By being a goody two-shoes, John is not pushing himself out of his comfort zone and missing out on opportunities.

    • The goody two-shoes politician always votes in favor of the status quo and never challenges the establishment.

      This final example demonstrates that the idiom "goody two-shoes" is often associated with people who conform to societal norms and avoid taking a stand against authority. In this case, the politician is seen as a goody two-shoes because they never rebel against the mainstream, preferring instead to follow the lead of those in power. By describing the politician as such, it suggests that they lack the courage to make a difference and stand up for what they believe in.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "goody two-shoes" is often used to describe someone who is perceived as being overly good or virtuous. It can be used to express annoyance or disdain towards someone who is seen as too morally upright or righteous. It can also be used to mock or tease someone who is perceived as trying too hard to be perfect or well-behaved. In addition, it can be used to criticize someone who is seen as too obedient or conforming to societal norms and expectations.

    Origin of "Goody two-shoes"

    The origin of the idiom "goody two-shoes" can be traced back to an 18th century children's story titled "The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes" by John Newbery. In the story, the main character, Margery Meanwell, is a poor orphan who only owns one shoe. She eventually becomes a wealthy and well-respected woman, earning the nickname "Goody Two-Shoes" because she now owns two shoes.

    The phrase "goody two-shoes" was then used to describe someone who is overly good or virtuous, possibly in a mocking or sarcastic manner. Over time, the idiom has evolved to also describe someone who is a show-off or goody-goody, as well as someone who blindly follows rules and authority.

    Despite its origins in a children's story, the idiom is still commonly used in various contexts to describe someone who is perceived as being too perfect or trying too hard to be good.