GOOD

Type

Noun

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Origin

The word ‘good’ comes from the Old English word ‘gōd’. This meant something was virtuous, wanted, right, or big in amount or importance. It is similar to the Old High German word ‘guot’, the Old Norse word ‘góðr’, and the Gothic word ‘goþs’.

The ancient root of ‘good’ in Indo-European languages is thought to be *ghedh-. This root is also part of words in other related languages. The main idea of ‘good’ is about being right, fitting, or valuable.

Through time, ‘good’ has kept its main meaning of having positive qualities or being morally right. As languages changed, the word took on new forms, but the main idea of ‘good’ stayed the same over many years and in different languages.

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Semantic

The word «good» has a broad and versatile semantic range, encompassing various positive qualities, states, and evaluations.

Here are key semantic dimensions of the word 'good': 

Moral Excellence

‘Good’ is often used to describe moral excellence, virtue, or adherence to ethical principles.

‘She is known for her good deeds and volunteer work’.

Quality or Desirability

It refers to the positive quality or desirability of something, indicating that it meets a certain standard or expectation.

‘This is a good book; I highly recommend it’.

Suitability or Fitness

'Good’ can denote suitability, appropriateness, or fitness for a particular purpose.

‘These places are good for dreaming’.

Positive State or Condition

It describes a positive state or condition, such as good health, a good mood, or feeling good.

‘I’m in a good mood today’.

Effectiveness or Efficiency

‘Good’ can express the effectiveness or efficiency of something.

‘The vintage material is good at building consistency’.

Satisfactory or Acceptable

It indicates that something is satisfactory or acceptable in terms of quality or performance.

‘The results were good enough to proceed’.

Positive Evaluation

‘Good’ is often used as a general positive evaluation or approval.

‘That’s a good idea!’

Beneficial or Advantageous

It can convey that something is beneficial or advantageous.

‘Eating fruits is good for your health’.

General Well-Being

'Good’ can describe a state of general well-being or positive sentiment.

‘All is good in my life right now’.

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Synonyms

Excellent, Superb, Fine

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Antonyms

Bad, Poor, Inferior

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Derivatives

Goodness, Better, Best