PhrasesHub

Gordon Bennett

    Definitions

      • surprise or shock
        Express astonishment or disbelief at something that has happened, usually in a negative sense

      • intensify emotions
        Used as a mild expletive or interjection to convey strong emotions such as frustration, annoyance, or anger

      • emphasize importance
        Highlight the significance or importance of something, often used in a sarcastic or humorous manner

    Examples of Gordon Bennett

    • I can't believe how expensive these designer jeans are! Gordon Bennett, who do these brands think they are charging this much for a pair of pants?

      The expression "Gordon Bennett" is used as an exclamation of surprise, shock, or disbelief. In this example, the speaker is expressing their disbelief at the high price of designer jeans, using "Gordon Bennett" to emphasize how extreme the cost seems to them.

    • I spent hours on this project, only to have my boss criticize all my work at the last minute. Gordon Bennett, why even bother working hard if you're just going to get rude feedback in the end?

      "Gordon Bennett" can also be used to express frustration or disappointment. In this example, the speaker is expressing their frustration at the situation, questioning the point of working hard if they're not going to be acknowledged or appreciated for it.

    • They won't clean the air on their own, but at least we can make small changes to reduce our carbon footprint. Gordon Bennett, what more can we do as individuals to address climate change?EXAMPLE: This line has a 3-hour wait, but at least the experience is worth it. Gordon Bennett, who has time to stand in line for that long?

      In this example, "Gordon Bennett" is used to express amazement or admiration. The speaker is highlighting the exceptional nature of the experience, questioning who has the luxury of waiting in line for such a long time.Overall, "Gordon Bennett" is a versatile idiom that can be used in a variety of situations to convey different emotions and reactions. Its usage adds an element of colorful language to a sentence, giving it more impact and interest.

    • "Gordon Bennett, I can't believe how expensive this new car model is!"

      This idiom is used when the person is surprised or amazed to an extent that they exclaim "Gordon Bennett" (which is now used as an interjection synonymously with "Good heavens" or "Good gracious" in modern English). In this example, the person is expressing their astonishment at the high price of the new car model.

    • "Gordon Bennett, I never expected her to cheat on our final exam!"

      Here, the idiom is being utilized when the speaker is astonished and disappointed at the same time, as in this scenario, the person is expressing their surprise and disgust at the thought of their friend cheating during the final exam.

    • "Gordon Bennett, I am so lost, even my GPS can't seem to find my location!"

      In this instance, the idiom is being employed when the speaker feels completely lost or disoriented, unable to orient themselves, and devoid of any help from even the most advanced technological aids like a GPS or satellite navigation system.

    • "Gordon Bennett, this shopping bill is simply astronomical!"

      Here, the speaker is using the idiom to express their immense astonishment or amazement at the incredible size, or in this case, the exorbitant price, of the shopping bill. The use of "astronomical" in this sentence further reinforces the expensiveness of the purchase.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "Gordon Bennett" is primarily used to express surprise or shock at something that has happened. It can also be used to intensify emotions, usually negative ones, or to emphasize the importance of something in a sarcastic or humorous way.

    In all these meanings, the idiom is used as a way to convey strong emotions or reactions. It is often used in colloquial or informal settings, and may not be appropriate for formal or professional contexts.

    Origin of "Gordon Bennett"

    The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the late 19th or early 20th century. One theory suggests that it may have originated from a British newspaper owner named James Gordon Bennett Jr., who was known for his eccentric and scandalous behavior.

    Another theory suggests that the idiom may have developed from the phrase "Gawd's truth" or "God's truth," which was used as an exclamation of surprise or shock. Over time, this phrase may have evolved into "Gordon Bennett," possibly due to its similar sound and the popularity of the newspaper owner.

    Regardless of its exact origin, "Gordon Bennett" has become a commonly used idiom in British and American English, and is often used as a more colorful alternative to expressions like "Oh my goodness" or "Good grief."